The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has cautioned private accommodation providers against demanding additional payments from students who receive financial aid. The scheme reminded landlords that its lease agreement does not allow deposits or extra charges beyond the rent the funding pays directly.
NSFAS Confirms Direct Rent Payments
In a statement on Thursday, NSFAS spokesperson Ishmael Mnisi emphasised that landlords must adhere to the standard lease agreement. He made it clear that students should not be pressured into paying additional fees.
“The rent will be paid monthly to the accommodation provider by NSFAS on behalf of the NSFAS-funded student, in accordance with the NSFAS Terms and Conditions for Private Accommodation Providers’ Participation on the Student Accommodation Portal,” Mnisi stated.
This assurance comes after students complained that some landlords were demanding upfront payments or additional fees despite the funding covering their accommodation costs.
Mnisi also clarified the position of students who are mistakenly defunded. If a student loses their funding due to an error, they will not be held responsible for unpaid rent up to the defunding date.
“Where the student moves accommodation providers without the prior approval of NSFAS, NSFAS may elect not to pay any rental to the new accommodation provider, and any such rental payments will be for the student’s account,” Mnisi explained.
Students who relocate without NSFAS approval may have to cover their rent, highlighting the importance of following the scheme guidelines.
Landlords Urged to Follow the Rules
NSFAS stressed that accommodation providers must comply with the terms of the lease agreement to avoid disputes. If disagreements arise, they must be resolved through the dispute resolution procedures set by the scheme.
“Any dispute arising between the parties regarding the interpretation or implementation of this agreement must be dealt with in accordance with any dispute resolution procedure determined by NSFAS for this purpose,” Mnisi added.
Do you think NSFAS should take stricter action against landlords who demand extra payments?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
