Formal Complaint: Non-Refund of Rental Deposit – Linden Heights / The Framework

Good day,

I hereby lodge a formal complaint against The Framework (rental agent) regarding the ******** non-refund of my rental deposit.

I rented a flat at Linden Heights from 2019 and vacated the premises on 28 November 2025. At the commencement of the lease, I paid a deposit of R5,500.00 in full.

An exit inspection was conducted with me as required by law. Despite this, the rental agent has failed to refund my deposit, and it has now been more than two months since I vacated the property.

The agent alleges that my deposit is being withheld due to damage to the bathroom. I dispute this allegation on the following grounds:

The bathroom wall was already peeling when I occupied the unit, which constitutes normal wear and tear.

Peeling paint caused by age and moisture over several years of occupation is not tenant-caused damage.

During the exit inspection, no serious tenant-related damage was identified that would justify withholding my full deposit.

No invoices, quotations, or proper proof of repair costs have been provided to substantiate any deductions.

In terms of Section 5 of the Rental Housing Act, the landlord or agent is required to refund the deposit within 7 to 14 days after the tenant vacates the property, and deductions may only be made for proven damages, excluding normal wear and tear.

Despite repeated follow-ups, the agent continues to delay payment and provide excuses, causing me financial prejudice.

I respectfully request the Rental Housing Tribunal to investigate this matter and assist in enforcing the refund of my full deposit of R5,500.00, together with any interest due.

I am prepared to submit all supporting documentation, including the lease agreement, proof of deposit payment, the exit inspection report, and correspondence with the rental agent.

Thank you for your assistance.

Kind regards, Portia Former tenant – Linden Heights