Rental Experience Review – Caution to Prospective Tenants

Rental Experience Review – Caution to Prospective Tenants

As a current tenant of a property managed by this agency at Autumn Square, I feel compelled to share my experience to assist prospective tenants in making informed decisions.

At the commencement of my lease, I formally requested—in writing—that my lease term be reduced from 12 months to 6 months due to the fixed-term nature of my employment contract in Bloemfontein. I clearly communicated that renewal of my employment was uncertain, and that I wanted to avoid being contractually bound without income. This request was accepted and accommodated by the agency, which I reasonably understood as confirmation of a fixed 6-month lease term unless I elected to extend.

Upon nearing the end of the agreed term, I declined their offer to extend the lease. However, the agency has since attempted to enforce an additional two-month obligation, relying on a contractual clause that existed at the time they agreed to amend the lease duration—despite being fully aware of my circumstances and the purpose behind the amendment.

In addition, upon taking occupation of the property, I reported several defects following inspection. These included maintenance issues that the agency was contractually obligated to address. There were significant delays, followed by a response indicating that there were no available funds within the estate to carry out the repairs. To date, several of these issues remain unresolved, including:

* A leaking roof * Missing or broken toilet doors * Broken security Gates

These issues not only remain outstanding but have also impacted my safety and reasonable enjoyment of the property.

Based on my experience, I have serious concerns regarding the agency’s integrity, transparency, and adherence to contractual obligations. I would strongly advise prospective tenants to exercise caution, ensure that all agreements are explicitly documented, and seek independent clarity on contractual clauses before signing.

Extremely disappointed tenant Aschin Klein