Every few years, municipalities conduct property valuations to update their rates databases.  You may have seen officials walking around your neighbourhood – or even showing up at your gate. 

But can they enter your house without consent?

Under South African law, municipal officials are allowed to enter your property for valuation purposes, but they cannot legally enter the interior of your home unless:

• You provide your consent;
• There is a Court Order to the effect

Your right to privacy is protected under Section 14 of the Constitution, 1996 which includes the right not to have your home searched without due process.

What the Law Says:

• The Local Government:  Municipal Property Rates Act (No 6 of 2004) allows valuers (which includes assistant valuers and data collectors) to enter the property between 7h30 and 19h00 excluding Sundays and public holidays. 
• They must carry and show an official photo or ID if requested
• But, this only applies to the external property and not the inside of your house
• Entry into your home without your consent would be a violation of your Constitutional Rights
  

You are within your rights to deny entry into your home, but THEY CAN STILL CONDUCT the valuation using 

• External inspection
• Aerial photography
• Comparable property data
• Statistical models 

See: Sections 41 and 45 of the Local Government: Municipal Property Rates Act (No 6 of 2004)

Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your professional adviser for specific and detailed advice.