RDP Housing in Gauteng: How to Apply
Gauteng is South Africa's most populous province and has the largest housing backlog, with over 600,000 households on the waiting list. RDP applications in Gauteng are handled by the three metropolitan municipalities — City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane (Pretoria), and Ekurhuleni — as well as several smaller local municipalities. This guide explains how to apply and what to expect.
Who Manages Housing in Gauteng?
The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements oversees housing policy and project delivery across the province. Day-to-day applications and waiting lists are managed by your local municipality.
- City of Johannesburg — for residents within Joburg's boundaries
- City of Tshwane — for residents of Pretoria and surrounding areas
- Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality — for residents of the East Rand
- Emfuleni Local Municipality — for Vereeniging, Vanderbijlpark areas
- Tembisa/Midvaal/Lesedi and other smaller municipalities
City of Johannesburg Housing
- Phone: 0860 562 874
- Walk-in: Jorissen Street Housing Office, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
- Also: regional offices in Soweto, Alexandra, Orange Farm, and Ivory Park
- Online enquiries: www.joburg.org.za
City of Tshwane Housing
- Phone: 012 358 9999 or 012 358 4000
- Walk-in: Housing Department, 320 Pretorius Street, Pretoria
- Regional walk-ins: Ga-Rankuwa, Hammanskraal, Atteridgeville
Ekurhuleni Housing
- Phone: 011 999 0000
- Walk-in: Ekurhuleni Civic Centre, Germiston
- Regional offices: Daveyton, Tembisa, Katlehong, Vosloorus
Gauteng Department of Human Settlements
- Phone: 011 355 4000
- Walk-in: 37 Sauer Street, Johannesburg
- National Housing Helpline (toll-free): 0800 146 873
Gauteng has prioritised in-situ upgrade projects in many informal settlements, which may reduce wait times for residents in targeted areas. Ask your ward councillor whether your informal settlement is earmarked for upgrading.
Waiting Times in Gauteng
Waiting times in Gauteng's metros are among the longest in South Africa, often exceeding 10–20 years in high-demand areas like Soweto, Alexandra, and Tembisa. This is due to the enormous backlog and rapid population growth.
Tips for Gauteng Applicants
- Apply as early as possible — the earlier your application date, the higher your queue position
- Keep contact details updated every year at your housing office
- Get involved with your ward committee — ward councillors often have information on upcoming projects
- Check if your area is included in any Priority Housing Development Areas
- Escalate unresolved queries to the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements or the national helpline