How can I check the status of my father's RDP application if he applied with a Dompas? Using his ID number does not work.

The long answer

Thank you for your email asking what you can do as your father applied for an RDP house with a Dompas (reference book or pass) and now when you check his status with his ID number, it says it is not found. 

Strictly speaking, one needs an ID to apply for an RDP house, so it's possible that because he applied with a Dompas there is an administrative issue that he needs to fix with the housing office or with Home Affairs.

Perhaps he should take his ID to Home Affairs and ask them to check that it’s correct and working. If it’s not, they must correct it. 

Then, he should go back to the municipal offices where he made his RDP application, taking his ID and any documents that could prove that he applied and when he applied, and ask them to look up his application and his status.

If they do not find it, it may be necessary for him to apply again. But you could also phone the Housing Enquiries Hotline: 0800 146 873, or visit their offices to ask for assistance in tracking your father’s application. 

If no one is helpful, you could contact the provincial MEC of Human Settlements (Housing) and make a complaint. The Housing MEC has the power to intervene in individual cases. 

If his application was withdrawn, your father would probably have to submit a sworn affidavit saying that he had no knowledge of his application being withdrawn and did not agree to it. 

You could also ask an organisation like the Black Sash for free paralegal advice. These are their details: 

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 072 663 3739 or 063 610 1865

Wishing you the best,
Athalie