The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has cautioned accommodation providers (landlords) to stop demanding a deposit or top-up payment from NSFAS-funded students.
The scheme said it has been reliably informed that there are some landlords who require funded students to pay extra fees, to access the approved private accommodation.
“The rent will be paid monthly to the accommodation provider (Lessor) by NSFAS on behalf of the Lessee (NSFAS funded student).
The Lessor may not require or permit the Lessee to pay a deposit, top-up payments, or any other forms of payment to the Lessor or any other person in connection with this agreement, including payment of rent while awaiting payment from NSFAS,” said the scheme spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi.
In addition, Mnisi said the landlord cannot hold the student reliable for any default or delays caused by NSFAS.
Mnisi also highlighted that if a student is defunded due to an incorrect decision by NSFAS, the student will not be liable for payment of any arrear rent to the landlord up until the date of being defunded.
“Where the NSFAS funded student chooses to continue occupying the leased premises notwithstanding being defunded by NSFAS, the student will be liable for payment of rent to the Lessor from the date of being defunded.
Where the student is defunded by NSFAS due to a misrepresentation by the Lessee/Guardian at any stage, the student immediately vacates the leased property and will be liable for payment of all rent due to the landlord,” explained Mnisi.
Furthermore, Mnisi also clarified that if a student moves to another accommodation without informing the scheme or approval, NSFAS may elect not to pay any rental to the new landlord, and the student will settle the rental on their own.
