DURBAN: The eThekwini Municipality has advised customers in debt and who are interested in entering into payment arrangements that it was now mandatory for the city to undertake an affordability assessment.

The move was in compliance with Sections 57 and 58 of the Magistrate Court Act 32 of 1944. The affordability assessment is effective from 1 February.

Customers are urged to ensure that all forms are filled in accurately, supporting documentation is submitted and is attached to the payment agreement.

“The city will require proof of income and expenditure to consider the affordability of the consumer to pay their instalments,” Head of Revenue, Lihle Ndzelu, said.

Ndzelu said the city was sensitive to the fact that a customer may not singularly meet the required monthly instalments and therefore in these instances, will accept joint household income and/or surety.

Darul Ihsan Media Desk