FORMAL COMPLAINT: FAILURE TO ATTEND TO A BLOCKED SEWER – EKURHULENI MUNICIPALITY

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to formally express my dissatisfaction and raise a serious complaint regarding the unacceptable delay and poor service I have received from the Ekurhuleni Municipality concerning a blocked sewer at my property.

On 8 October 2026, I reported the blocked sewer and was issued with reference number ***. I was assured that the maintenance team would be dispatched to my property on 9 October 2026. However, despite this assurance, no maintenance team has attended to the problem.

Since reporting the matter, I have repeatedly contacted the municipality every two days to follow up on the status of my complaint. Each time, I am given the same response: that the maintenance team will attend to the matter the following day. Unfortunately, these promises have repeatedly gone unfulfilled, with no action taken to resolve the problem.

Due to the continued lack of action, I escalated the matter to the call centre manager, Cynthia, and expressed my dissatisfaction with the apparent lack of urgency demonstrated by the maintenance team. I made it clear that this is not merely an inconvenience but a serious health and safety concern.

I operate a daycare centre from my home, and the ongoing sewer problem poses a significant health risk to the children in our care. Sewage and waste are exposed on the surface, creating an unhygienic environment that may expose the children and other occupants to harmful bacteria and other health hazards. It is extremely concerning that, despite being informed of the circumstances and the potential danger to young children, the matter has still not received the urgent attention it requires.

I find it deeply disappointing that residents are repeatedly given assurances that service requests will be attended to, only for those promises to be ignored. It raises serious concerns about accountability, professionalism, and the level of commitment shown by the municipality's maintenance personnel.

It is particularly frustrating that when employees are seeking employment, they often make commitments about the quality of service they intend to provide. Yet, once employed, the level of service delivered can be completely different. This situation is both disappointing and unacceptable, especially when the health and safety of innocent children are at stake.

I therefore request the following:

Urgent intervention by the relevant maintenance team to clear the blocked sewer without further delay. A clear explanation for the repeated failure to honour the commitments made to me. Accountability from the relevant department regarding the handling of this service request. Written feedback confirming when the problem will be resolved and what steps will be taken to prevent further delays. I expect the municipality to treat this complaint with the seriousness and urgency it deserves. Residents should not have to make repeated calls and escalate complaints several times before receiving the basic services they are entitled to.

I trust that this matter will receive immediate attention and that decisive action will be taken to resolve the problem. The continued delay is unacceptable, particularly given the health risks posed to the children attending my daycare centre.

I look forward to your urgent response and a satisfactory resolution.

Yours faithfully,

Masello Modiga *** 669 Sophangisa Str, Nhlapo Section Katlehng Reference Number: ***