How to Apply for an RDP House in South Africa
The Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) provides free or subsidised government housing to qualifying South African citizens who cannot afford to build or buy their own homes. Applications are handled by your local municipality or provincial Department of Human Settlements. This guide explains who qualifies, what documents you need, and how to apply.
RDP houses are transferred as full ownership to beneficiaries — they cannot be sold or transferred for 8 years after occupation (the restriction period under the Housing Act).
What Is an RDP House?
An RDP house is a government-built home provided at no cost to qualifying low-income South Africans. The programme falls under the Breaking New Ground (BNG) housing policy and is administered by the Department of Human Settlements.
RDP houses are typically 40 m² brick structures with two rooms, a bathroom, and a toilet. They are built on serviced stands with water and sanitation connections.
You will be disqualified if you or your spouse have previously received a government housing subsidy or own any property in South Africa.
Who Qualifies for an RDP House?
- South African citizen or permanent resident
- 18 years or older, or legally married
- Household income not exceeding R3,500 per month
- First-time government housing subsidy recipient
- Never owned residential property before
- If married, both spouses must be South African citizens or permanent residents
Documents Required
- Certified copy of your South African ID (green barcoded ID or smart card ID)
- Certified copies of spouse's or life partner's ID (if applicable)
- Certified copies of birth certificates for all dependent children under 18
- Proof of income (payslip, bank statements, or affidavit if unemployed)
- Proof of residential address (utility bill not older than 3 months)
- Marriage certificate or proof of customary union (if married)
- Divorce decree (if divorced)
- Death certificate of spouse (if widowed)
You can also apply online via the National Housing Needs Register (NHNR) portal at www.dhs.gov.za in provinces where this is available.
How to Apply
- Visit your nearest local municipality office (housing department) or provincial Department of Human Settlements office.
- Request and complete the housing subsidy application form (HSS form).
- Attach all certified supporting documents to the form.
- Submit the completed application at the housing office.
- Request a receipt or reference number — keep this for follow-up.
- Your application is captured on the Housing Subsidy System (HSS) database.
- Wait for notification from the municipality — waiting times vary significantly by province and area.
After You Apply
Once submitted, your application is placed on the municipal waiting list. There is no set timeframe — waiting periods can range from a few years to over a decade depending on demand and available housing projects in your area.
Municipal officials may conduct a site visit to verify your current living conditions. Ensure that your contact details are kept up to date with the housing office.