Avoid this company at all costs - You've been warned

Avoid this company at all costs.

After moving out of our apartment in Amsterdam Estate (Olivedale), managed by Landsdowne Properties, our entire deposit of approximately R11,000–R12,000 was withheld.

The justification provided at the time was: - Repainting walls and doors — despite this being normal wear and tear after lawful occupation. - “Slight swelling” in a bathroom cabinet panel, which they used to justify replacing the entire cabinet rather than repairing a minor issue.

I can understand the walls, but replacing an entire cabinet over minimal swelling is excessive. If basic bathroom humidity causes swelling, that reflects material quality, not tenant negligence.

There was no fair distinction made between reasonable wear and tear and actual damage. Based on our experience, deposits do not appear to function as security — but rather as a convenient renovation fund.

Now, nearly a year later, they reach out to us stating that we owe an additional R400 on top of our security deposit that was withheld.

Tenants should proceed with extreme caution.