RDP houses (now officially called Breaking New Ground or BNG houses) are fully government-subsidised homes provided to low-income South African families. These houses are owned by the beneficiaries and are intended to provide safe, dignified shelter with essential services like water and electricity.
Gap Infrastructure Corporation
Gap Infrastructure Corporation 
Who Qualifies for an RDP House?
To be eligible for a fully subsidised RDP/BNG house, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen or a legal permanent resident.
- Age: You must be over 21 years old (or over 18 in some provinces) and mentally competent to sign a contract.
- Income: Your total household income must be less than R3,500.01 per month.
- Home Ownership: You must be a first-time homeowner and first-time recipient of a government housing subsidy.
- Family Status: You must be married, habitually cohabiting, or single with financial dependants (e.g., children or elderly parents).
- Exceptions: Single military veterans and aged persons without dependants also qualify.
City of Ekurhuleni +4
- Exceptions: Single military veterans and aged persons without dependants also qualify.
How to Apply
Applying for a government house is a free process. Do not pay anyone who claims they can “speed up” your application.
Department of Human Settlement +1
Department of Human Settlement +1- Visit Offices: Go to your local municipal housing office or Provincial Department of Human Settlements.
- Documents Needed: Bring your valid ID (green barcoded or smart card), spouse’s ID, marriage/divorce certificates, children’s birth certificates, and proof of income (e.g., pay slip or affidavit if unemployed).
- Registration: Complete the application form to be placed on the Housing Needs Database (waiting list).
- Reference Number: Keep your reference number to track your status on the Subsidy Administration Portal.
Rules for RDP Owners
- Selling Restrictions: It is illegal to sell an RDP house before you have lived in it for eight years. After eight years, the house must first be offered back to the State if you wish to sell.
- Renting: It is illegal to rent out an RDP house; they are intended for the beneficiary’s own occupation.
- Title Deeds: Once allocated, you should receive a Title Deed, which is your legal proof of ownership.
For further assistance, you can contact the National Department of Human Settlements at 0800 146 873.
Department of Human Settlement
Department of Human SettlementWould you like to know how to check your application status online or where to find your local housing office?
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