The City of Tshwane’s newly published valuation roll has sparked widespread criticism from homeowners who are unhappy with the outcome of their objections. 

Many residents expressed disappointment after discovering that their property values had doubled, raising concerns about the potential impact on their tax bills.

The DA in Tshwane warned property owners four months ago about the impending significant increase in property rates income, stating that the city planned to substantially boost its revenue from this source. 

The party emphasised that the city’s financial struggles should not be borne by residents through tax hikes, advocating for properties valued at R450,000 or less to be exempt from paying rates.

According to DA PR councillor Juanita du Plooy, at least 70% of those who lodged objections to the city’s valuation roll are unhappy with the outcome, suggesting that the city’s valuation process has not been transparent or fair.

She stated that she has received numerous queries from homeowners who are unhappy with the outcome of their objections to the new valuation roll.

DA councillor Jacqui Uys, former MMC for finance, advised disgruntled property owners on a social media video post to check for a letter from the city regarding the outcome of their objection. 

The letter, she said, should indicate whether the city accepted their objection or upheld its initial valuation, along with reasons for the decision.

“If they did not yield to your objection, you still have the opportunity to appeal, and on the appeal, you must give a valid reason as to why you say the outcome of the objection is still not correct, as well as the official valuer’s letter,” she said.

Uys said the next step would be for the city to be summoned to appear before an appeal panel, after which the process will proceed accordingly.

Tshwane’s Deputy Executive Mayor and MMC for Finance, Eugene Modise, said the city has completed capturing objections for the 2025-2029 general valuation roll.

“We are now entering the crucial review phase, where each objection is being carefully assessed by the municipal valuer in accordance with the Municipal Property Rates Act (MPRA),” he said.

He said the review phase includes cross-referencing claims with the city’s official valuation records to ensure transparency, fairness, and accuracy. 

“Where necessary, objectors may be consulted to clarify any outstanding matters. Once the review process is finalised, formal decision notices will be issued to both objectors and property owners,” he said.

Modise explained that if any party is unhappy with the outcome, they can appeal the decision or request written reasons within 30 days of receiving the notice. 

“Submitting an objection does not exempt a property owner from paying their property rates on time, as stipulated in Section 50(6) of the MPRA,” he said.

Residents can contact the city at 012 358 8377/ 5072/5081 or email us at prov@tshwane.gov.za for more information or assistance.

rapula.moatshe@inl.co.za

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