Maintenance Costs in South Africa
Why It Matters
Owning a home means more than paying your bond—it also includes ongoing upkeep. Experts recommend setting aside around 1–4% of your home's value per year for maintenance and repairs. For a R1 million property, that's between R10 000 and R40 000 annually. This budget helps prevent small issues from growing into costly emergencies.
Typical Annual Costs
| Cost Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Routine Maintenance | Gutter cleaning, plumbing checks, painting, landscaping |
| Emergency Repairs | Geyser replacements (R9–10k), roof leaks, burst pipes |
| Rates & Utilities | Municipal rates, electricity, water, refuse – R1–3k/month |
| Security & Insurance | Alarms, homeowner’s insurance, solar or backup systems |
“Whatever you budgeted for maintenance, double it.” — SA homeowner on Reddit
Major Cost Contributors
- Seasonal Tasks – Gutter cleaning, roof inspections, plumbing checks, seasonal painting
- Specialist Trades:
- Plumbing: R450–R850/hour; annual plans R2–5k
- Electrical: R350–R900/hour
- Handyman/General: R200–R700/hour
- Carpentry/Cupboards: R200–600/hr or R4k+ per metre
What Homeowners Say
“I moved in and within a year my geyser shat. That was a 9/10k bill.”
“Rates and taxes … electricity … water, sewage, rubbish … another R1k.”
“You will need to repaint the entire place every 5 to 10 years.”
Smart Budgeting & Maintenance Strategy
- Set aside 1–4% of home value annually (R8 000–30 000 per year)
- Keep an emergency fund for major breakdowns like geysers or roof leaks
- Schedule seasonal checks: gutter, roof, plumbing, paint, electrics
- DIY when possible, but call professionals for structural or specialised work
- Compare quotes — don’t just choose the cheapest provider
Takeaway
Being a homeowner in South Africa means planning ahead. Budget for ongoing maintenance, build an emergency fund, and engage professionals when needed. A proactive approach protects your investment and helps you avoid costly surprises down the line.