Communicare believes in providing quality of life with dignity. Part of this commitment is ensuring our tenants are well-informed about their responsibilities, including understanding utilities.

Utilities are essential services that make your living space comfortable and functional.

Knowing who pays for them and how they work is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and financial issues. Let’s break it down for you.

What are utilities?

Utilities are the essential services that keep your home running smoothly. These include:

• Electricity: Powers your lights, appliances, and devices.
• Water: Provides clean water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
• Sewerage: Manages wastewater removal.
• Refuse removal: Ensures your trash is collected and disposed of responsibly.
• Other services: In some cases, gas or internet may also be considered utilities.

These services are vital for maintaining a comfortable and functional living environment.

Who pays for utilities?

According to your lease agreement, tenants are responsible for repaying the landlord for all utility charges, including:

• Electricity: Basic service, network charges, meter fees, common area usage, and consumption.
• Water: Basic service, network charges, meter fees, common area usage, and consumption.
• Sewerage, refuse removal, and other charges: These are also part of your utility responsibilities.

Prepaid water and electricity remain the tenant’s responsibility and are based on consumption. These costs are separate from your rental billing.

As a tenant, it’s important to understand your responsibilities when it comes to utilities.

Consequences of not paying utilities

Failing to repay utility charges is considered a material breach of your lease agreement, which can lead to:

• Legal implications: The landlord can claim the amount owed, which may affect your tenancy.
• Financial impact: Unpaid utility bills can result in additional fees and even impact your rental history.

Paying your utilities on time ensures a smooth tenancy and avoids unnecessary complications.

Utility billing and reviews

Communicare strives to be transparent and fair in our billing practices. Here’s what you need to know:

• Annual reviews: Utility charges are adjusted annually on 1 July, in line with the City of Cape Town’s increases.
• Billing in arrears: Utilities like water, sewer, refuse, and CID are billed in arrears. This means fixed charges are not billed immediately when you move in but are included in your final statement after vacating.
• Final costs: A utility admin fee is charged in arrears, and final utility costs are deducted from your deposit.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Why am I billed after vacating?

Utilities are billed in arrears, meaning you pay for what you’ve used after the fact. Final costs are calculated and deducted from your deposit when you vacate.

How can I manage utility costs?

• Track your usage: Monitor your water and electricity consumption to avoid surprises.
• Budget wisely: Set aside funds for utility payments to ensure you’re always covered.

Empowering you, every step of the way

Understanding utilities and your responsibilities as a tenant is key to maintaining a positive rental experience.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact your property manager or our Call Centre at 0800 266 737.

By staying informed, you can ensure a seamless and stress-free tenancy.

Thank you for being part of the Communicare community!

Together, we can create a community where everyone enjoys quality of life with dignity.