Unfair notice of cate the premises

Unfair treatment of long-term tenant and invasion of privacy – Afhco Properties

Complaint I would like to raise a serious complaint regarding how Afhco Properties has handled the sale of the apartment I am currently renting.

I have been renting my flat at Afhco Jabulani Mews since 2018, which means I have been a loyal tenant for almost 8–9 years. During this time I have always respected my responsibilities as a tenant.

Around November last year, Afhco Properties informed tenants that the properties were now available for rent-to-buy opportunities, which had not been offered before. I showed interest in purchasing the property and started the process.

However, what has been happening since then has been extremely frustrating and unfair.

Firstly, agents from Afco Properties continuously bring potential buyers to view the property while we are still living in it. They frequently request access to take photos and bring banks and other people to inspect the apartment. This has felt like a serious invasion of our privacy, as strangers are constantly entering our home.

Secondly, I have now been informed that the apartment I am currently living in has already been sold to another buyer, even though I am still living there and was also interested in buying.

The most concerning part is that on 11 March I received a letter informing me that I must vacate the property by the end of April. This gives me only about a month and a half to move out, which is completely unreasonable considering that:

I have lived in the property for almost 9 years

I have children who will be affected and may need new schooling arrangements

I work full time and finding suitable accommodation takes time

I was in the process of trying to buy the property myself

It is extremely disappointing that Afco Properties did not handle this process in a fair and respectful way towards long-term tenants. There are also other vacant units available, yet the unit with an existing tenant was sold without proper consideration for the tenant’s situation.

At the very least, tenants who have lived in the property for many years should be given reasonable notice (at least 3 months) to find alternative accommodation.

I would like Afco Properties to explain:

Why the property was sold while I was still occupying it and interested in purchasing it

Why tenants are subjected to repeated property viewings and photos while still living there

Why such short notice was given for vacating the property

This situation has caused unnecessary stress for my family. I hope Afhco Properties will respond and handle this matter fairly.