Have your say on eviction law amendments

The Department of Human Settlements has published the draft Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Amendment Bill, 2026, for public comment.

The Bill proposes a range of changes aimed at strengthening and clarifying South Africa's eviction framework, while retaining the requirement that evictions may only take place through a court process.

Of particular interest to landlords and property practitioners, the Bill includes proposals dealing with financial hardship, alternative accommodation, mediation and the factors courts must consider when deciding whether an eviction is just and equitable. The Bill also proposes tougher measures against unlawful land occupations and organised land invasions.

The Minister of Human Settlements has extended the public comment period to 6 August 2026. Interested stakeholders are encouraged to review the proposed amendments and submit comments directly to the Department of Human Settlements using the details found on their website.