Property subletting is becoming popular in South Africa, largely because of aggressive interest rate increases and the high cost of living. Many people look for subtenants to help them pay their rent, while others seek to sublet if they’re moving elsewhere and can’t get out of their current lease.
Subletting can be helpful if you’re in need of extra cash, says Shafeeka Anthony, Marketing Manager of personal finance website JustMoney.co.za. This is not a decision to be taken lightly, however, as it can present challenges.
“Subletting may seem like a great option if you are a tenant, but it’s essential to check the terms of your lease before going ahead,” Anthony says. “You may not sublet without your landlord’s consent – and even if granted, it may be against body corporate rules. Subletting illegally can cause major issues and has ramifications.”
JustMoney lists some pros and cons of subletting, both from the point of view of someone considering subletting a property, and a potential subtenant.
Pros of subletting as the main tenant
Affordability: Subletting part of a unit or house will bring in more income and allow you to remain in a place you like but can no longer afford.
Flexibility: If you want to travel for an extended period or find a place that better suits your needs, subletting frees you up. Somebody else takes on the rental responsibilities. The sublessee could also take over the unit permanently when your lease expires, which may suit the owner.
Penalty avoidance: Subletting allows you to change location without incurring the penalties that often go with breaking a lease. Having someone pay rent for the duration of your lease will help you keep your rental record intact, and maintain your credit score.
- Read a JustMoney article explaining credit scores and how you can improve yours.
Cons of subletting a property
Screening: You may have to screen many potential subtenants to find the best fit. This could entail marketing your sublet as a landlord would, with the associated time involved and financial expense.
Payments: The subtenant may not stick to the sublease conditions. They could skip payments, leaving you responsible for paying the full rent to your landlord. If your sublessee damages the property, the landlord may hold you accountable, affecting your relationship with them and possibly making it difficult to rent in future.
Management: Subletting turns you from a renter into a landlord. Do you have the time and energy to respond to your sublessee’s issues, questions and complaints?
Evicting a subtenant: If your subtenant doesn’t pay, and refuses to move out, you could face a difficult, lengthy process that may require a court order. If the situation extends beyond your own lease period, your landlord may issue a damages claim against you for loss of revenue.
Pros of subletting as the secondary tenant
Easier application process: As you’re not the primary leaseholder, approval requirements for taking on a sublease are generally less strict than for traditional leases.
Shorter duration: It’s often hard to find a lease that’s shorter than a year, but a sublet could entail the exact number of months you want, or even a month-to-month arrangement.
Lower deposit: Most landlords require two months’ deposit, which many people do not have. As a sublessee, you’re likely to pay a lower deposit.
Good deal: Some tenants are willing to settle for a lower subrental, so that they can move on quickly. You may get a sublet at a great price, especially if supply is plentiful and you negotiate.
Neighbourhood check: Subletting gives you the chance to find out more about a neighbourhood or building before committing to a long-term lease, or a purchase.
If you decide that subletting is the way to go, it’s essential to prepare an explicitly worded agreement so that both parties know what is expected of them, says Anthony. Include items such as the rental amount, occupation date, lease duration, deposit, and which utilities are covered.
Additional factors include how many people may occupy the property, how many vehicles can be parked, and whether pets are allowed. Take photos of the property and fitments before the subtenant moves in.
- Read a comprehensive JustMoney article on subletting a property here.
“Many people are under financial pressure, so it’s wise to be aware of cash flow and how best to cover your costs,” says Anthony.
“Subletting is one way to optimise a property rental. There are, however, many factors to consider and this is not a decision to take lightly. Do your homework, and for extra peace of mind, consult a lawyer to ensure that you cover all the necessary items in your sublease agreement.”
JustMoney.co.za is a trusted voice within the personal finance sector. The JustMoney website offers articles, money management tools and a wide range of financial products and services. Over 200,000 South Africans subscribe to the newsletter to stay informed and become financially savvy. Find the website here.
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