On finalisation of the consideration of objections, if there is evidence that the market value reflected on the property valuation roll is wrong, the law requires the municipality to correct the situation, and where such correction results in rates refunds to the ratepayer, the municipality is obliged to refund the ratepayer. In a case where

Adopt by-laws to give effect to the adopted rates policies Gazette the property valuation rolls for public inspection outlining also the process of raising objections Outline to the public the appeal process regarding outcome of objections What must ratepayers do to effectively participate in the implementation of the Municipal Property Rates Act?  Chapter 4 of the

Municipalities are required to: Develop rates policies Strengthen internal capacity to conduct valuations Prepare general property valuation rolls Consult the community on their draft rates policies

The Act requires that the rating of newly rateable property be phased in over a period of three or four financial years depending on the use and ownership of property. Newly rateable property is any rateable property on which property rates were not levied before the end of the financial year preceding the date on

In terms of the Act municipalities may provide for exemptions, rebates, and reductions in their rates policies based on local conditions and circumstances. The cost of such locally determined exemptions, rebates, and reductions must be considered by the municipal council in relation to the benefit received by the local community from such relief measures. For

Section 229(2) of the Constitution provides for national legislation to regulate municipalities’ power to levy property rates. In terms of the Act, certain exclusions from rating are made. These include:  The first R 15 000 of the market value of residential property;  Land reform beneficiaries’ property, for 10 years, provided that the property doesnot change

Municipalities need a reliable source of revenue to provide basic services and perform their functions. Property rates are the most important source of general revenue for municipalities, especially in developed areas. Revenue from property rates is used to fund services that benefit the community as a whole as opposed to individual households. These include installing

Yes. The act contains checks and balances to protect property owners. The Minister for Provincial and Local Government, with the concurrence of the Minister of Finance, can limit the Cent amount in the Rand that municipalities impose, if such proof can be provided that such a Cent amount in the Rand on specific category of

The critical determinant of how much property owners will pay is the amount in the Rand each municipal council will determine for the various property categories. The Act does not change the total revenue needs of municipalities, nor does it set the Cent amount in the Rand. Each municipality will continue to set and collect