The City of Johannesburg wishes to inform customers with multiple properties of the once-off property rates adjustment reflecting on the July 2025 statements.
The recent property rates adjustments reflecting on the municipal accounts for some residential property owners, follows the implementation of Section 6.3.5 of the 2024/25 Property Rates Policy, in alignment with Sections 15 and 17(1)(h) of the Municipal Property Rates Act, No.6 of 2004, as amended (MPRA).
According to the City’s approved 2024/25 Property Rates Policy, residential property owners automatically receive a rebate on the first R300 000 of their property’s market value.
For owners with multiple residential properties, on the other hand, this rebate structure is applied only to the primary property with the highest value. All additional/secondary residential properties linked to the owner qualify for a reduced rebate of R15 000 only on each additional property.
However, the property rates change could not be applied to secondary property owners from 1 July 2024, as intended, due to system upgrades.
Instead, implementation of the amended rates began in December 2024, with retrospective adjustments being processed to account for the initial months of the financial year (July to November 2024).
As a result, affected customers will notice a once-off adjustment on their municipal accounts, reflecting the differential for the period July to November 2024. On average, this adjustment is around R1 083.60, depending on individual property values and rating categories
The City is aware that this adjustment may place a temporary financial strain on some customers, and therefore extends an invitation to all affected property owners to engage the City on reasonable payment arrangements.
Those who are unable to pay the full adjustment amount immediately are encouraged to visit their nearest customer service centre or email creditcontrol@joburg.org.za to enter into a formal acknowledgement of debt arrangement (AOD).
The City apologises to customers for any inconvenience caused. We are taking steps to ensure improved clarity going forward, especially around property rates policies and billing system changes.
The City thanks our valued customers for their understanding and cooperation as we finalise this correction. The City remains committed to fair billing practices, responsive governance, and ensuring that all property owners receive accurate, consistent and transparent service.
Should there be any further queries, or clarity seeking, please email the Property Branch on ratescomments@joburg.org.za
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