I purchased a home in Midrand Bluehills in 2015, which I moved into in April 2016. During construction and due to theft of electrical covers etc., the contractor (new development), hired someone to live in my home for protection. The water account was consequently run up such that I had a bill of R2000 approximately by the time I moved in (the contractor did not settle this). I was then threatened with disconnection by the City, over which I had to pay about R5000 in August 2024.
Barely 2 months after this, the city sent me an invoice of R11000 (i live alone) and informed me that I was not properly billed for water before. I complained to the Ombudsman and was informed that the City had a right to charge me (regardless of statements sent and settled) thus, based on the City’s bylaws. I requested the bylaws but not a single person provided me these. This one cost me nearly R18000 to settle. During this period while my complain was being addressed, my water was cut off and I cam home one day to flies on the kitchen windows. I also encountered a corrupt City official during this time.
In this month of June 2026 the City is now wanting to charge me 3 times (from R400 to R1080 approximately) of property rates I was paying in May 2026, outside of the property rates calculated by the City, based on the value of my house. I was informed when I asked, diamissively so, that my house went from 0 value to R590000 between August 2016 and June 2017, and I am now being charged for that increase. Mind you, I have been property rates as established by the City.
I foresee a threat of disconnection water disconnection and flies and being left vulnerable, as City officials mismanage the monies already in their care. I am tired and dont know what else to do.