The Housing Needs Register is a vital tool used by the South African government to ensure that those in need of affordable housing are provided with opportunities to own homes. This system helps prioritize applicants for government-subsidized housing based on factors like income levels, family size, and current living conditions. Checking your status on the Housing Needs Register is crucial if you’ve applied for subsidized housing, as it helps you understand where you stand in the allocation process.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to check if you’re on the Housing Needs Register in South Africa, along with some important tips for managing your application.
What is the Housing Needs Register?
The Housing Needs Register is a database maintained by the South African government to manage and monitor individuals and families who require subsidized housing. The register helps determine who qualifies for government-funded housing programs based on their need for housing and their ability to afford it. The government uses the Housing Needs Register to allocate homes to eligible citizens on a priority basis.
Each province and municipality has its own specific housing register, and applicants need to apply directly with their local government office or through the Department of Human Settlements.
Eligibility Criteria for the Housing Needs Register
Before checking your status on the register, it’s essential to ensure that you meet the basic eligibility criteria for government-subsidized housing:
South African Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen or a permanent resident.
Age: You must be 18 years or older.
Income Levels: Your household income must fall within the prescribed limits for subsidized housing. This generally means an income below a certain threshold, often no more than R3,500 to R7,500 per month, depending on your municipality.
No Ownership of Property: You should not own property or have access to formal housing.
Family Size: Larger families are often prioritized, with preference given to those in urgent need of accommodation.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have applied for housing, it’s time to check if you’re on the Housing Needs Register.
How to Check if You’re on the Housing Needs Register
There are several ways to check if you’re on the Housing Needs Register, depending on your location and the system in place at the time of your application.
1. Online Verification via the Housing Subsidy System (HSS)
One of the easiest ways to check your status is through the Housing Subsidy System (HSS) Portal. This national platform allows you to check your status by entering your personal information.
Visit the HSS Portal: Go to the official HSS Online Portal.
Enter Your ID Number: Use your 13-digit South African ID number to check your status.
View Your Application Status: After submitting your ID number, the portal will display your application status, whether it is approved, on hold, or rejected.
2. SMS Inquiry
Many municipalities offer an SMS service where you can easily check your application status. To check via SMS, send a text with your ID number (without spaces) to 44108. You should receive an immediate response detailing your status on the register.
This service is widely available and can be used regardless of your municipality.
3. Contacting the Department of Human Settlements
You can contact the national Department of Human Settlements to inquire about your application status. The Department’s hotline, 0800 146 873, is available on weekdays from 6 am to 10 pm.
Alternatively, you can send an email to info@dhs.gov.za with your ID number and request your application status. Be sure to include any relevant details for a quicker response.
4. Visit Your Local Housing Office
If you prefer in-person verification, you can visit the housing office of your local municipality. Bring along your ID and any supporting documentation that may have been part of your application. The housing office will be able to look up your details in the register and provide you with your status.
Be sure to check office hours, as some offices may have limited working hours due to COVID-19 or other logistical challenges.
5. Municipal Websites and Portals
Some municipalities have their own websites or portals where you can check the status of your housing application. These portals may require you to create an account or log in to access detailed information about your application.
For example, municipalities like the City of Cape Town have an online portal where you can check your application status and get updates about the availability of housing.
Understanding the Application Status
Once you’ve checked your application status, you may encounter a few common terms that indicate your position on the Housing Needs Register:
Verified: Your application has been successfully received and verified by the local housing office.
Submitted to PHB for Approval: Your application is under review by the Provincial Housing Board (PHB).
Approved: You have been approved for a housing subsidy, and you are on track to receive housing.
On Hold: There may be issues with your application (missing documentation, further verification required) that need to be addressed.
Declined: Your application has been rejected, often due to reasons such as exceeding income limits or prior property ownership.
Make sure to contact the relevant office if your application is “On Hold” or “Declined” to find out what steps are necessary to resolve the issue.
What to Do if You Are Not on the Housing Needs Register
If after checking your status you find that you are not listed on the Housing Needs Register, you should:
Confirm Your Application: Ensure that your application was submitted correctly and that all documentation was provided.
Visit the Housing Office: If you’re unsure whether your application was successfully processed, visit your local housing office to inquire about the status.
Reapply: If there was an error with your original application or if your application was not processed, you may need to reapply or submit additional documentation.
Check for Updates: The status of applications can change. Regularly check your status and follow up with the relevant authorities.
Updating Your Details on the Housing Needs Register
If you’ve had changes in your personal circumstances (e.g., marital status, number of children, or employment), it’s crucial to update your details with the local housing office. This ensures that your application remains accurate and up-to-date.
You will need to provide any necessary documentation, such as:
A new marriage certificate (if you’re married).
Birth certificates of children or dependents.
Proof of income or any other relevant updates.
Related: How to Appeal an RDP Housing Allocation in the Wrong Province
Checking your status on the Housing Needs Register is an essential part of the process when applying for government-subsidized housing in South Africa. Whether you’re using online platforms, SMS services, or visiting your local housing office, there are various methods available to verify your position. It’s crucial to stay proactive in monitoring your application and ensure all your details are accurate and up-to-date to avoid any delays in the allocation process.
If you have not yet applied for housing or are unsure about the process, start by contacting your local municipality or visiting their official websites to get the most up-to-date information. The government’s commitment to providing affordable housing to citizens in need makes checking your Housing Needs Register status an important step towards securing a home.
