1 Vol 2 Part 3 Technical and General Guidelines

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES
PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)
2009
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACRONYMS ..................................................................................................................... 7
1
PART A: INTRODUCTION TO THE NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES. .....11
1.1 OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................. 11

1.1.1 APPLICABILITY OF GENERAL FRAMEWORK TO HOUSING SUBSIDY
SCHEME ...................................................................................................... 11
1.1.2 GENERIC PROVISIONS.............................................................................. 11
1.2 SUMMARY OF MAIN CRITERIA FOR ELIGIBILITY.............................................. 12
1.3 SECURITY OF TENURE......................................................................................... 16
1.4 THE QUANTUM OF THE HOUSING SUBSIDY ..................................................... 17
1.5 BENEFICIARY CONTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS .............................................. 17
1.6 HIDDEN SUBSIDIES............................................................................................... 17
1.7 VALUE ADDED TAX............................................................................................... 17
2
PART B: TECHNICAL PROVISIONS ..................................................................... 21
2.1 NATIONAL NORMS AND STANDARDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION

OF STAND ALONE RESIDENTIAL DWELLINGS FINANCED THROUGH
NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES................................................................. 21
2.1.1 PURPOSE .................................................................................................... 21
2.1.2 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................... 21
2.1.3 GENERAL PRINCIPLES ............................................................................. 22
2.1.4 RELEVANCE OF THE NATIONAL BUILDING REGULATIONS (NBR)
TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING ..................................................................... 22
2.1.5 PROOF OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE NBR............................................... 23
2.1.6 THE ROLE OF THE NATIONAL HOME BUILDERS REGISTRATION
COUNCIL (NHBRC) ..................................................................................... 24
2.1.7 THE NATIONAL NORMS AND STANDARDS FOR STAND ALONE
RESIDENTIAL DWELLINGS FINANCED THROUGH THE NATIONAL
HOUSING PROGRAMMES ......................................................................... 25
HOUSING LAND .......................................................................................... 25
NORMS AND STANDARDS IN RESPECT OF MUNICIPAL
ENGINEERING SERVICES ......................................................................... 25
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NORMS AND STANDARDS IN RESPECT OF MUNICIPAL

STAND ALONE PERMANENT RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES
(HOUSES) .................................................................................................... 27
A
THE SITE PREPARATION ............................................................ 27
FOUNDATIONS ............................................................................. 28
SUB-STRUCTURE:
(MORTAR CLASS II: 1:6 CEMENT SAND MIXTURE) .............. 29
FILLING.......................................................................................... 29
FLOOR SLAB ................................................................................ 29
SUPERSTRUCTURE:
(MORTAR- CLASS II) 1:6 CEMENT SAND MIXTURE ................. 29
METALWORK ................................................................................ 30
GLAZING........................................................................................ 31
CARPENTER ................................................................................. 31
ROOF ............................................................................................. 31
LIGHTING AND VENTILATION..................................................... 32
FINISHING...................................................................................... 32
PLUMBING..................................................................................... 33
STORM WATER............................................................................. 33
ENVIRONMENTALLY EFFICIENT HOUSING .............................. 34
2.1.8 EXCEPTIONS IN THE APPLICATION OF THE NORMS AND

STANDARDS ............................................................................................... 35
2.2 BROADER ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES ....................................................... 35
2.2.1 RATIONALE FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND HOUSING ................... 36
2.2.2 PURPOSE AND STRUCTURE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL
GUIDELINES................................................................................................ 36
2.3 COMPONENTS OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND HOUSING ............................ 36
2.3.1 SUSTAINABLE ENERGY ............................................................................ 36
2.3.2 SUSTAINABLE WATER ............................................................................. 40
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS ...................................................................... 41
SECONDARY WATER USE (GREY WATER) AND RAINWATER
HARVESTING ............................................................................................ 42
WATER SAVING DEVICES......................................................................... 43
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2.4 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS.............................................................................. 44

2.4.1 THE SITE ..................................................................................................... 44
2.4.2 INFRASTRUCTURE PROVISION ............................................................... 45
2.4.3 THE HOUSE ................................................................................................ 45
HOUSING PLAN .......................................................................................... 45
HOUSING ELEMENTS ................................................................................ 45
2.4.4 RETROFITTING ........................................................................................... 45
2.4.5 DANGEROUS PRACTICES ........................................................................ 46
2.4.6 DAMP ........................................................................................................... 46
2.4.7 INDOOR AIR QUALITY ............................................................................... 46
2.4.8 EMISSION OF DANGEROUS CHEMICALS ............................................... 46
2.4.9 SITING OF HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS ................................................... 47
3
VARIATION MANUAL ............................................................................................ 51
3.1 VARIATION MANUAL (ADJUSTMENT OF THE HOUSING SUBSIDY

SCHEME AMOUNT FOR EXTRAORDINARY DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS)... 51
3.1.1 DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS ....................................................... 51
3.2 BACKGROUND ...................................................................................................... 52
3.3 PURPOSE ............................................................................................................... 52
3.4 POLICY STATEMENT ............................................................................................ 53
3.5 DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS THAT REQUIRE SPECIAL
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES, THE MEASURES TO ADDRESS THESE
CONDITIONS AND THE QUANTIFICATION OF THE ADJUSTMENT OF
THE SUBSIDY AMOUNT........................................................................................ 54
3.5.1 DESCRIPTION OF GEO-TECHNICAL CONDITIONS AND
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES ............................................... ..................54
3.5.2 ERODIBILITY OF SOIL ............................................................................... 56
3.5.3 HARD EXCAVATION................................................................................... 57
3.5.4 DOLOMITE .................................................................................................. 57
3.5.5 EXPANSIVE CLAYS (SITE CLASS H2 AND H3) ...................................... 58
3.5.6 COLLAPSING SANDS (SITE CLASS C2) ................................................. 61
3.5.7 COMPRESSIBLE SOILS (SITE CLASS S2) ............................................... 62
3.5.8
MINING SUBSIDENCE ............................................................................... 63

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3.5.9
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SEISMIC ACTIVITY .................................................................................... 64

DESCRIPTION OF TOPOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS AND
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES ................................................................ 65
3.5.10 TOPOGRAPHY OF THE SITE ..................................................................... 65

3.5.11 LOCATION OF DEVELOPMENT SITE........................................................ 66
3.5.12 DESCRIPTION OF PHYSICAL DISABILITIES AND THE SPECIAL
HOUSING NEEDS ..................................................................... ..................67
3.5.13 SOUTHERN CAPE COASTAL CONDENSATION AREAS ........................ 69
3.6
4.
VARIATION CALCULATOR ........................................................................ 71
EXTENDED PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME

(EPWP) GUIDELINES............................................................................................. 91
4.1 OBJECTIVE OF THE EPWP................................................................................... 91

4.2 APPLICATION OF THE EPWP TO THE HOUSING SECTOR .............................. 91
4.3 FUNDING OF THE EXPANDED PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME ....................... 94
4.4 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS...................................................................... 95
4.4.1 NATIONAL DEPARTMENT ......................................................................... 95
4.4.2 PROVINCIAL LEVEL................................................................................... 95
4.5 OPERATIONALISING THE EPWP ......................................................................... 96
4.6 ENTERING INTO MEMORANDA OF UNDERSTANDING .................................... 97
4.7 TRAINING AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN THE EPWP .................................... 97
4.7.1 A BASIC OVERVIEW ON TRAINING AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT....... 97
4.7.2 BENEFICIARY DEVELOPMENT ................................................................. 98
4.7.3 PROVINCIAL DEPARTMENT ..................................................................... 99
4.7.4 MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF THE EPWP ................................. 102
MONITORING INDICATORS ..................................................................... 103
4.7.5 FLOW OF MONITORING INFORMATION ................................................ 104
4.7.6 EVALUATION OF THE EPWP .................................................................. 104
4.7.7 COMMUNICATION OF THE EPWP........................................................... 105
4.7.8 REPORTING COMPLIANCE ..................................................................... 106
5
HOUSING SUBSIDY SYSTEMS .......................................................................... 109

HOUSING INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS ...................................... 109
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MULTI YEAR PLANNING FOR HUMAN SETTLEMENTS

DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................... 117
6.1 OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................... 117

6.2 THE APPLICATION OF THE PROCESS OF COMPILING THE
TREASURY STRATEGIC PLAN .......................................................................... 117
7
MONITORING, EVALUATION AND IMPACT ASSESSMENT

STRATEGY FOR THE HOUSING SECTOR......................................................... 123
7.1 THE MANDATE FOR MONITORING, EVALUATION AND IMPACT

ASSESSMENT (MEIA) IN THE HOUSING SECTOR ........................................... 123
7.2 APPLICATION OF MEIA ...................................................................................... 127
7.2.1 OPERATIONALISING THE MANDATES .................................................. 127
7.2.2 THE NATIONAL DEPARTMENTs RESPONSE TO FACILITATE THE
ACHIEVEMENT OF THE MANDATES ...................................................... 128
7.2.2.1 ENHANCED ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE ........................ 128
7.3 OPERATIONAL MATTERS .................................................................................. 129
7.3.1 COLLABORATION .................................................................................... 129
7.3.2 INITIATIVES............................................................................................... 129
7.3.3 A MONITORING AND EVALUATION POLICY FOR THE HOUSING
SECTOR..................................................................................................... 129
7.3.4 THE MONITORING, EVALUATION AND IMPACT ASSESSMENT
FRAMEWORK FOR THE HOUSING SECTOR AND THE
INDICATOR PROTOCOL .......................................................................... 130
7.3.5 MONITORING AND EVALUATION SYSTEM (MEIA SYSTEM) ............... 134
7.3.6 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ........................................................................ 134
7.3.7 CAPACITATION OF NATIONAL AND PROVINCIAL OFFICIALS ........... 135
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ACRONYMS
Expanded Public Works Programme
EPWP
Department of Water and Environmental Affairs
DWEA
Housing Subsidy System
HSS
Human Settlement Redevelopment Programme Fund
HSRDP
Integrated Development Plan
IDP
Integrated Residential Development Programme
IRDP
Member of Executive Council
MEC
Medium Term Expenditure Framework
MTEF
National Department of Human Settlements
ND
National Home Builders Registration Council
NHBRC
Provincial Department responsible for human settlement
PD
Value Added Tax
VAT
National Building Regulations
NBR
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Technical Guidelines
1 Part A: Introduction to the National Housing

Programmes
2 Part B: Technical Provisions
3 Variation Manual
4 Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP)
Guidelines
5 Housing Subsidy Systems
6 Multi Year Planning
7 Monitoring and Evaluation
2009
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PART A: INTRODUCTION TO THE NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES
1.1 OVERVIEW
1.1.1 APPLICABILITY OF GENERAL FRAMEWORK TO HOUSING SUBSIDY
SCHEME
The following General Framework is prescriptive in nature, and applies to
the following National Housing Programmes:
a)
Individual Subsidies;
b)
Integrated Residential Development Programme;
c)
Consolidation Subsidies;
d)
Institutional Subsidies; and
e)
Rural Subsidies: Communal Land Rights
1.1.2 GENERIC PROVISIONS
These Generic Provisions deal with issues pertaining to housing

subsidies.
These need to be noted in addition to the Technical
Guidelines section, which contains the revised Technical Norms and

Standards for the Construction of Stand Alone Residential Dwellings
Financed through National Housing Programmes, details of
variations to the subsidy amount, Environmental Guidelines, a
synopsis of the Extended Public Works Programme, the Housing
Subsidy System and details as regards monitoring and evaluation.
It is important to note that there are also specific rules that apply to
each subsidy programmes. For instance, some programmes have
specific eligibility criteria that apply over and above the criteria
specified in these Generic Provisions. These are not explained in
this chapter, but are dealt with in the chapter dealing with the
subsidy to which they apply.
This document deals specifically with programmes approved with

effect from 1 April 2007. Reference should also be made when
necessary to the National Housing Code: March 2000. In particular,
the Blocked Projects programme still forms part of the March 2000
National Housing Code, as well as Guidelines for the Deregistration
of Missing Beneficiaries and the Rectification of Houses Delivered
between 14 March 1994 and 31 March 2002.
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1.2 SUMMARY OF MAIN CRITERIA FOR ELIGIBILITY

The following main criteria need to be fulfilled in order for a person to be eligible to
apply for a housing subsidy. A person only qualifies for a housing subsidy if he or
she is:
a. Resident:
he or she is lawfully resident in South Africa (i.e. citizen of the
Republic of South Africa or in possession of a permanent residence permit.

Certified copies of the relevant documents must be submitted with the
application).
b. Competent to contract: he or she is legally competent to contract (i.e. 18 years
of age or older, legally married or legally divorced and of sound mind).
c. Not yet benefited from government assistance: neither that person nor his or
her spouse has previously derived benefits from the housing subsidy scheme, or
any other state funded or assisted housing subsidy scheme which conferred
benefits of ownership, leasehold or deed of grant or the right to convert the title
obtained to either ownership, leasehold or deed of grant. Such previous
beneficiaries may, however, qualify for the purchase of a vacant serviced site.
In the case of a divorced applicant who previously derived benefits from the
housing subsidy scheme, or any other state funded or assisted housing subsidy
scheme which conferred benefits of ownership, leasehold or deed of grant or the
right to convert the title obtained to either ownership, leasehold or deed of grant,
the terms of the divorce order will determine such an applicants eligibility for any
further benefits under this Programme.
Divorced applicants who acquired
ownership of a residential property or who derived a financial benefit from the

sale of a residential property as part of the dissolvement of the joint estate, will be
disqualified from accessing any further housing subsidy, except that such an
applicant may purchase a serviced stand developed as part of a project financed
from any of the National Housing Programmes.
d. Previously owned a fixed residential property: such a person may only qualify
for the purchase of a vacant serviced site. However, if a person has obtained a
residential property without government assistance and the property does not
comply with the National Norms and Standards for the construction of standalone dwellings, such a person still qualifies for a housing subsidy. The property
so acquired must be in possession and registered in the name of the potential
beneficiary, with the Registrar of Deeds.
In addition to the above requirements, any applicant must also satisfy the following
criteria, as linked to the benefits of the Programme:
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e. Married or cohabiting: he or she is married (in terms of the Civil Law or in

terms of a Customary Marriage) or habitually cohabits with any other person.
The word spouse includes any partner with whom a prospective beneficiary
habitually cohabits.
Where an application is made for a subsidy on the basis of a legal marriage or
cohabitation arrangement, it is required that the property must be registered in
the names of both spouses in the Deeds Office. Documentary proof of the
marriage and affidavits from both spouses in respect of cohabiting arrangements
and customary marriages must be provided.
Applicants who satisfy the above criteria may qualify for the purchase of a
serviced site and/or a housing subsidy for the construction of a top structure.
f. Single with Financial Dependents: he or she has proven financial dependents.
A financial dependent refers to any person who is financially dependent on the
subsidy applicant and who resides permanently with the housing subsidy
applicant. Financial dependents include any or a combination of the following
proven financially dependent persons of, and residing permanently with, the
subsidy applicant:
i)
Biological parents or parents-in-law;
ii)
Biological grandparents or grandparents-in-law;
iii)
Brothers/sisters under the age of eighteen (18) years or, if older, who
are proven financially dependent on the applicant;
iv)
Children under the age of eighteen (18) years, i.e.:

a) Grand children;
b) Adopted children;
c) Foster children;
d) Biological children;
e) Any of the above persons over the age of eighteen (18) years
who are still studying and who are financially dependent on
the applicant; and
v)
extended family members who are permanently residing with the

applicant due, for example, to health problems and who are
therefore proven financially dependent on the housing subsidy
applicant;
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Special Provision: it is a requirement that in cases where housing subsidy

applications are submitted by single persons with financial dependents, that the
particulars from the identification document of such dependents must be
recorded on the application form, and the information must be captured in the
Housing Subsidy System. The following documents amongst others, must
accompany an application for a housing subsidy:
Certified copies of:
i)
Birth certificates, bearing the thirteen digit identity number for

children who do not have bar coded identity documents;
ii)
Bar coded identity documents of all persons who are claimed as part
of the household;
iii)
Divorce settlement documentation (to prove custody of children)

where relevant;
iv)
Affidavits and/or sworn statements for unions solemnised in terms of

SA Civil Law to prove the authenticity of the relationship to the
applicants, where applicable; and
v)
Court orders or, orders issued by the Commissioner of Child Welfare

to prove guardianship for foster children, where relevant.
Applicants who satisfy the above criteria may qualify for the purchase of a
service site and/or a housing subsidy for the construction of a top structure.
g. Single persons without financial dependents: Applicants falling within this
category may apply for the purchase of a serviced site in project linked approved
projects.
Once this person satisfies the other qualification criteria of that
Programme, he or she may apply for a housing subsidy for the construction of a
top structure. Single persons may also apply for rental accommodation.
h. Monthly household income:
in cases where the gross monthly household
income of his or her household:

i)
Does not exceed the maximum income limit as approved by the Minister
from time to time, he or she may qualify for a housing subsidy for the
construction of a top structure.
ii)
Exceeds the amount of R3 500,00 but is not more than R7 000,00, he or

she may qualify to apply for a Finance Linked Individual Subsidy for the
construction of a house.
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A prospective beneficiary will be required to submit adequate proof of income,

and, in the case of income received through self-employment, must sign an
affidavit stating the amount earned.
For the purposes of assessing whether any particular person is entitled to
receive a housing subsidy, the income of his or her spouse (if any) shall be
added to that persons income, and income shall include:
i)
Basic salary and/or wages;
ii)
Any allowances paid on a regular, monthly or seasonal basis as part

of an employment contract;
iii)
Any loan interest subsidy or other remuneration payable regularly on

a monthly basis to the individual (and/or to his or her spouse) by his
or her employer;
iv)
Any financial obligations met on behalf of the individual (or his or her
spouse) by his or her employer on a regular monthly basis;
v)
Any commission payable to the individual (and/or to his or her

spouse) on a monthly basis (an average of the most recent 12
(twelve) months will be determined for eligibility assessment
purposes);
vi)
Income received through self employment; and
vii) Any retirement or disability benefits received on a regular (monthly)

basis.
i. Persons who are beneficiaries of the Land Restitution Programme:
beneficiaries of the Land Restitution Programme (LRP), should they comply with
other qualification criteria, may apply for housing subsidies in the following
manner:
i)
In cases where a serviced site has been provided in terms of the

Land Restitution Programme, such beneficiaries may qualify for a
housing consolidation subsidy.
ii)
In cases where an unserviced site has been provided in terms of the

Land Restitution Programme, such beneficiaries may qualify for a
housing subsidy to service the site and for the construction of a top
structure.
iii)
In cases where no site has been provided, such beneficiaries may

qualify for the purchase of a serviced site and/or a housing subsidy
for the construction of a top structure.
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Special Provisions: Where a LRP beneficiary was awarded a serviced site

he/she shall only qualify for the residual of the subsidy amount after the
reduction of the cost of the land, and the cost of providing engineering services,
but not less than the prevailing consolidation subsidy amount. In cases where an
unserviced site is allocated to a LRP beneficiary, the full prevailing subsidy
amount available to that beneficiary will be awarded.
j. Persons classified as military veterans:
Military veterans who are single
without financial dependants may also apply for subsidisation. Military veterans
can be classified as persons who served under any previous manifestation of the
military as well as those persons involved in military operations during the
liberation movement. Confirmation of classification of a military veteran must be
obtained from South African National Defence Force. Veterans must submit with
their application:
i)
Proof of service; and
ii)
Details of social services received.
k. Persons classified as aged: Aged persons who are single without financial
dependants may also apply for subsidisation. Aged persons can be classified as
male and female persons who have attained the minimum age set to qualify for
Governments old age social grant.
l. Persons classified as disabled:
Persons who are classified as disabled,
whether single, married or co-habiting or single with financial dependants, may

apply for housing subsidies. In addition the MEC may in his/her discretion decide
to award the beneficiary the variation of the subsidy.
Furthermore, if a person who has already received state funding for housing
and/or who already owns or owned a residential property, is or becomes
disabled, or if his or her dependent(s) is/are or become disabled and that
person satisfies the other qualification criteria, the MEC may at his/her
discretion decide to award the beneficiary the variation of the subsidy.
The variation of the subsidy amount for purposes of improvements to the
dwellings for disable persons is contained in the Variation Manual, included in
the Technical and General Guidelines of the National Housing Code.
1.3 SECURITY OF TENURE
Persons will only qualify for housing subsidies where they acquire the secure right
to occupy, use or own a property in terms of a tenure form which can be registered
with a competent authority. Generally subsidies will be made available only to
beneficiaries who acquire registered title to a property either in the form of
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ownership, leasehold, 99-year leasehold, or deed of grant. Institutions that access

institutional subsidies must either own the immovable property or hold registered
long-term rights to ensure security of tenure for beneficiaries. In the instance of rural
subsidies, beneficiaries must have defined undisputed informal land rights in terms
of prevailing legislation.
1.4 THE QUANTUM OF THE HOUSING SUBSIDY
The Director-General of the National Department will annually announce the
Housing Subsidy amount, supported by a detailed cost breakdown that would be
applicable for that specific financial year.
The subsidy amount may be increased to cater for special development
requirements. The details for the variations of the subsidy amount are contained in
the Manual for the Variations of the Housing Subsidy, found in Part C (the Technical
Provisions section) of this General Framework.
1.5 BENEFICIARY CONTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS
The principle that housing subsidy beneficiaries must contribute towards realising
their rights to access the Housing Subsidy Scheme benefits took effect on 1 April
2002. Such contributions could be realised by means of a financial contribution or a
contribution in kind, by participating in the building of their houses through the
Peoples Housing Process route.
The contribution requirements are detailed in the respective National Housing
Programmes with reference to income, nature of the Programme concerned and
indigent persons.
A strategy for the collection of the required financial contributions has been
approved. This strategy contains the details regarding contribution requirements,
exemptions and collection details.
1.6 HIDDEN SUBSIDIES
Hidden subsidies refer to the provision of undeclared financial assistance. It is
governments policy that:
a) The housing subsidy must be equitably applied for the purpose for which it was
intended;
b) All other national subsidies must be transparently acknowledged, declared and
discounted against the housing subsidy in given instances to obviate duplication
of funding from different national resources; and
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c) Additional sub national subsidies must be approved by provincial governments,

transparently acknowledged and declared.
1.7 VALUE ADDED TAX
In terms of a ruling by the former Commissioner of Inland Revenue, housing
subsidies fall within the definition of transfer payments as contemplated in the
Value Added Tax Act, 1991 (Act No. 22 of 1991) and is subject to VAT at a rate of
zero percent (0%).
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Programmes
3 Variation Manual
Guidelines
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PART B: TECHNICAL PROVISIONS
2.1 NATIONAL NORMS AND STANDARDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF STAND

ALONE
RESIDENTIAL
DWELLINGS
FINANCED
THROUGH
NATIONAL
HOUSING PROGRAMMES
2.1.1 PURPOSE
This section contains the minimum National technical norms and
standards for the creation of serviced residential stands and houses to
be constructed through the application of the National Housing
Programme.
With effect from 1 April 2007, it replaced the National
Norms and Standards contained in the National Housing Code, 2000.

All residential developments that will be undertaken through the finance
provided in terms of the National Housing Programmes must comply
with the norms and standards contained in this section.
2.1.2 INTRODUCTION
In terms of the provisions of section 3(2)(a) of the Housing Act, 1997 (Act
No. 107 of 1997), which came into effect on 1 April 1998, the Minister of
Housing must determine national policy, including national norms and
standards in respect of housing development. Section 3(3) furthermore
provides that the national norms and standards referred to, includes
norms and standards in respect of permanent residential structures but
are not limited thereto.
The then Minister of Housing introduced such norms and standards in
terms of the provisions of the Housing Act, 1997 (Act No.107 of 1997) in
December 1998.
The Comprehensive Plan for the Creation of
Sustainable Human Settlements, approved by Cabinet on 1 September

2004, inter alia advocates the enhancement of the National Norms and
Standards for housing products to be delivered through the National
Housing Programme.
The objective of creating sustainable housing
developments through quality and durable products that comply to

minimum standards and giving effect to the objectives of the Housing Act,
1997 (Act No. 107 of 1997) is also supported.
In terms of the provisions of section 1 (vi) of the Housing Act, 1997 (Act
No. 107 of 1997) which came into effect on 1 April 1998, housing
development means:
the establishment and maintenance of habitable, stable and
sustainable public and private residential environments to ensure
viable households and communities in areas allowing convenient
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access to economic opportunities, and to health, educational and

social amenities in which all citizens and permanent residents of the
Republic will, on a progressive basis, have access to:
(a)
permanent residential structures with secure tenure, ensuring

internal and external privacy and providing adequate protection
against the elements; and
(b)
potable water, adequate sanitary facilities and domestic energy

supply.
Against this background, the previous Minister of Housing introduced the

revised National Norms and Standards, including prescripts regarding the
housing typologies that will be financed through National Housing
Programmes in future with effect from 1 April 2007.
2.1.3 GENERAL PRINCIPLES
Any specification or definition of norms and standards for affordable
housing should ideally be performance based.
This encourages
innovation by allowing a variety of building systems, materials or

techniques to be combined to meet the set performance requirements.
While there are many technologies that can be used to produce a house
that will meet a performance specification, it is essential that the resulting
structure is acceptable to the community members who are the potential
buyers of the housing products. It is advisable that the acceptability of
any proposed building system is tested in the earliest phase of project
development and certainly, before the construction contract relating to the
superstructure of the dwellings is officially approved and finalised.
2.1.4 RELEVANCE OF THE NATIONAL BUILDING REGULATIONS (NBR) TO
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
The NBR as published in the Government Gazette from time to time
apply
equally
to
affordable
housing
and
to
luxurious
housing
developments. The NBR consist of performance standards for buildings,

without prescribing how these are to be achieved.
The SABS 0400 publication, relating to the application of the building
regulations contains both the NBR and a set of deemed-to-satisfy rules.
The rules are provided to assist designers to meet the performance
requirements set out in the regulations.
It deals with conventional
construction only, is not regulations, nor does it have the force of law of
the NBR. For example:
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Deemed-to-satisfy rule HH2.4 requires that the width of any continuous

strip foundation shall not be less than 600mm in the case of a foundation
to a load-bearing or free standing masonry wall.
There is no need to comply with this rule if in the opinion of an engineer:
a)
Ground conditions are so poor that more sophisticated foundations

must be used, or
b)
The combination of building load and founding conditions is such

that the strip foundation can be reduced in width, or omitted
altogether.
On presenting either alternative to the municipality, it will be accepted as

complying with the relevant building regulation, if it is shown to be the
result of a rational design by an appropriately qualified, competent
person.
2.1.5 PROOF OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE NBR
There are several methods of persuading a municipality that a particular
design complies with the requirements of the NBR, namely that the
building will be constructed in accordance with:
a)
A design that conforms in all respects with the Deemed-to-satisfy

rules set out in SABS 0400;
b)
c)
A certificate issued by the Board of Agrment SA, that is,

-
an Agrment Certificate, or
a MANTAG Certificate; and
A rational design prepared by a competent person. Unconventional

building methods, systems or components, are covered by an
Agrment Certificate.
This provides an assurance of fitness for
purpose of non-standardised building and construction products and

systems, by evaluating these against prescribed performance
criteria.
A MANTAG Certificate is a distinct type of Agrment Certificate dealing
with:
acceptable safety and health criteria for houses and related outbuildings, non-residential schools and primary health care centres in
areas where the local authority is of the opinion that the type of
construction is appropriate, given that in these areas it is of
23
2009
paramount importance that the buildings be erected at the lowest

possible cost.
Rational designs are normally presented in relation to the structural
strength and stability of a dwelling and much less frequently, in relation
to:
a) Resistance to rainwater penetration;
b) Damp proofing;
c) Fire protection;
d) Lighting and ventilation; and
e) Drainage.
However, there is a tendency for regulatory authorities that are presented
with a rational design, to assume that it covers all aspects of the work.
For this reason the National Department insists that the competent
person must:
a)
Clearly identify those aspects of the building that are the subject of
the rational design;
b)
Inspect for compliance with the rational design; and
c)
Assume
full
professional
responsibility
for
the
subsequent
performance of the subjects covered by the rational design.

All aspects of the work that are not the subject of the rational design,
must comply with the Deemed-to-satisfy rules of SABS 0400 or be
covered by a Certificate issued by the Board of Agrment SA.
2.1.6 THE ROLE OF THE NATIONAL HOME BUILDERS REGISTRATION
COUNCIL (NHBRC)
The NHBRC was established in terms of Section 2 of the Housing
Consumers Protections Measures Act, 1998 (Act No. 95 of 1998) as a
statutory body with the prime objective to provide consumer protection
through the regulation of the home building industry.
In terms of the provisions of the said Act, all home builders must be
registered with the NHBRC and a home builder may not commence with the
construction of a home unless the home is enrolled with the NHBRC. The
NHBRC has also published Home Building Manuals and the technical
requirements contained in the said manual are enforced by the NHBRC.
24
2009
The Housing Subsidy Scheme was made subject to the provisions of the
said Act with effect from 1 April 2002 and all houses that are to be
constructed through the application of the housing subsidy amount only
must be enrolled with the NHBRC and these houses will therefore be
subject to the following technical specifications:
a)
The NBR;
b)
The Standards introduced by the NHBRC; and
c)
The National Norms and Standards contained in this document.
The NHBRC requires the results of a geological survey of a particular

stand or site and will evaluate the findings of the report and may require
that specified precautionary measures be provided in respect of
municipal engineering services and/or the dwelling to be constructed.
2.1.7 THE NATIONAL NORMS AND STANDARDS FOR STAND ALONE
RESIDENTIAL DWELLINGS FINANCED THROUGH THE NATIONAL
HOUSING PROGRAMMES
HOUSING LAND
It is confirmed that for purposes of this document, in accordance with the
MINMEC decision, the cost of acquisition of land for housing
development is not part of the funding provided through the Housing
Subsidy Scheme. Housing land will be acquired in terms of a separate
dedicated Housing Land Programme including a separate funding
mechanism.
The land price in respect of each individual stand will
however be taken into account in determining the actual product price of

the residential property created through the housing subsidy scheme.
This will also be required in terms of the calculation of the NHBRC
enrolment fees and to ensure that the subsidy beneficiary is informed
regarding the total value of the housing product allocated to him/her.
NORMS AND STANDARDS IN RESPECT OF MUNICIPAL ENGINEERING
SERVICES
General conditions
Bulk and connector services located outside the boundaries of project
sites and which are provided by municipalities/service providers must be
financed through internal sources of revenue of municipalities or other
resources and may not be financed out of the Integrated Housing and
Human Settlement Development Grant (IHAHSG).
25
2009
A municipality may, in instances where it has the capacity, provide

additional funds for the provision of municipal engineering services and/or
the construction of houses, or a combination thereof, to enhance the end
products to be delivered through the National Housing Programmes.
Standards for internal municipal engineering services
The internal reticulation services must be funded from alternative funding
resources. However, as a last resort option in cases where no other
funding resources are available the internal reticulation services may be
funded from the provincial annual housing development funding allocated
by the Minister.
The level of the engineering services to be provided is determined by the
provisions of the relevant National Housing Programme. For instance, the
Programme: Upgrading of Informal Settlements provides for considerable
discretion regarding the township layout and infrastructure design and
standards. This means that a particular informal settlement layout may
be required to ensure higher densities and in achieving this objective, not
every residential property may have a road access. However, in general,
all
residential
properties
created
through
the
National
Housing
Programme must at least comply with the levels of services indicated in

the following table:
Table 1: Minimum Level of Services permitted in terms of the National Norms and
Standards
Type of Service
Minimum Level
Water
Single standpipe per stand (metered).
Sanitation
VIP or alternative system agreed to between the community, the municipality

and the MEC.
Roads
Graded or gravel paved road access to each stand. This does not
necessarily require a vehicle access to each property.
Stormwater
Lined open channels.
Street lighting
Highmast security lighting for residential purposes where this is feasible and
practicable, on condition that such street lighting is not funded from the MIG
initiative or from other resources.
26
2009
NORMS AND STANDARDS IN RESPECT OF STAND ALONE

PERMANENT RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES (HOUSES)
Minimum size and facilities
The minimum size of permanent residential structures to be provided by
means of the housing subsidy, is 40 square metres of gross floor area.
Each house as a minimum must be designed on the basis of:
a)
Two bedrooms;
b)
A separate bathroom with a toilet, a shower and hand basin;
c)
A combined living area and kitchen with wash basin; and
d)
A ready board electrical installation where electricity supply in the

township is available.
Technical specifications
The minimum technical specifications indicated below will be applied to
all stand alone houses constructed as part of Project Linked Subsidies,
Individual Subsidies, Consolidation Subsidies, Institutional Housing
Subsidies and Peoples Housing Process projects.
Assumptions used to determine the specifications:
a)
Favourable soil conditions (NHBRC classification H, S, R, C);
b)
Level Topography;
c)
Maximum 10 meter connection to municipal water supply and sewer;

and
d)
The SCCCA is excluded (as a different dispensation is available to

these areas).
THE SITE PREPARATION
The finished ground levels must direct water away from the building.
In areas where termite infestation is known to be a problem, the soil
within the site must be treated in accordance with the recommendations
set out in SABS 0124 - Application of certain soil insecticides for the
protection of buildings.
27
2009
FOUNDATIONS
B.1
Cement
The correct cement for the purpose intended must be clearly

specified and it must comply with the requirements of SABS
ENV 197-1 common cements and SABS 413-1.
Masonry Cements:
a) Masonry cement shall not be used in concrete;
b) Masonry cement MC 22,5X shall not be used in shell bedding
mortar; and
c) Cement for use in concrete, mortar or plaster shall be chosen
in accordance with Table 2.
B.2
Design
The foundation of any building must be designed to safely

transmit all the loads from the building to the ground without
causing or being subjected to excessive movements.
In favourable soil conditions the foundations must be designed
to reduce as far as practically possible, the depth of excavation,
the height of the foundation walls and the cost of unnecessarily
large footings.
Any variation from the foundations required by the Deemed-tosatisfy rules of the NBR must be the subject of a rational design
by a Professional Engineer.
In problematic soil conditions, a Professional Engineer must
design the foundations and advise on the articulation of the
superstructure and all additional prescribed requirements that
are deemed necessary.
The minimum foundation specifications are:
a) External: 500 x200mm (10Mpa) concrete strip footings;
b) Internal: 400 x 200mm (10Mpa); and
c) Founding depth: 400mm.
28
2009
SUB-STRUCTURE: (MORTAR CLASS II: 1:6 CEMENT SAND

MIXTURE)
140mm cement masonary inuts (7Mpa) in compliance with
SABS specification No.1215 at 4 x courses only.
FILLING
Imported (house area x 300mm x 1.46).
FLOOR SLAB
Any floor of any building shall be:
a) water resistant in the case of the floor of any kitchen, shower
room, bathroom or room containing a Water Closet (WC);
b) provided with adequate under-floor ventilation in the case of
a suspended timber floor;
c) so constructed that any moisture present in the ground or
filling is prevented from penetrating the slab in the case of a
concrete floor slab that is supported on ground or filling; and
d) 75mm (10Mpa) concrete steel hand or power floated without.
SUPERSTRUCTURE (MORTAR- CLASS II) 1:6 CEMENT SAND

MIXTURE
F.1
Walls
Any wall shall be:

a) so constructed that it will adequately resist the penetration of
water into any part of the building where it would be
detrimental to the health of the occupants or to the durability
of the building;
b) provided with the means to fix any roof truss, rafter or beam
to the wall in a secure manner that will ensure that any forces
to which the roof may normally be subjected will be
transmitted to the wall supporting it; and
c) of
combustibility
and
fire
resistance
characteristics
appropriate to the use of the wall.

The minimum specifications for walls are:
a) 140mm cement masonary units SABS specification No 1215;
b) Maximum 10mm bed joint and purpends;
29
2009
c) Allow for gable;

d) Height of external walls: 2400mm (100 x 24); and
e) Height of internal walls to u/s of roof covering.
Note: Internal walls to be load bearing roof anchoring
Table 2: Cements and their use in concrete (C), mortar (M) and plaster (P)
SABS
ENV.
SPEC
DESCRIPTION
SABS ENV.
NOTATION
COMMON CEMENT
APPROXIMATE EQUIVALENT
CEMENTS
USE
DESCRIPTION
NOMENCLATURE
SABS
197-1
Portland Cement
CEM
Ordinary Portland
OPC
471
yes
yes
yes
197-1
Portland
Cement
Slag
CEM II/A-S
Portland
Slagment
PC 15 SL
831
yes
yes
yes
Portland
Silica
Fume Cement
CEM II/A-D
Portland
Limestone
Cement
CEM II/A-L
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
Portland Fly Ash

Cement
CEM II/A-V
CEM II/A-W
CEM II/B-V
CEM II/B-W
197-1
Blast
Furnace
Cement
CEM III/A
yes
Portland Fly Ash

Cement
PC 15 FA
Portland Fly Ash

Cement
PC 25 FA
Blast
Furnace
Cement
PBFC
1466
yes
1491
yes
MASONRY CEMENTS
413-1
Masonry Cement
MC 12,5
413-1
Masonry Cement
MC 22,5X
yes
METALWORK
The minimum specifications for metalwork are:
a) 1.0mm pressed metal clisco doorframes (internal/ external);
b) Standard 3 mm steel window frames in 1.0mm clisco
surrounds;
30
2009
c) 2 level lockset internal; and

d) 3 level lockset external.
Note:
H
Use of clisco surrounds in window frames, excludes

the needs for lintels, dpc and window cills.
GLAZING
Any glazing shall be of glass and be fixed in a manner and
position that will ensure that it will:
a) safely sustain any wind loads to which it is likely to be
subjected; and
b) not allow the penetration of water to the interior of the
building.
In accordance with SABS 0173 allow for silicone bead around Clisco
frames.
CARPENTER
External door frames: External hardwood frames ledged braced
batten doors (closed back)
Internal doors: Hollow core masonite clad:
Purlins:
152 x 50mm (S5) SAP purlin beams at maximum 1 m
centre to centre tied with 30 x 1,2mm (galvanised) hoop iron

straps to masonary (600mm deep) with the maximum span
3,5m/45m2 units.
J
ROOF
The roof of any building shall:
a) be so constructed that it will resist any forces to which it is
likely to be subjected;
b) be durable and waterproof;
c) not allow the accumulation of any rainwater upon its surface;
d) be constructed to provide adequate height in any room
immediately beneath the roof/ceiling assembly; and
e) have a fire resistance appropriate to its use.
The minimum specification for the roof is:
31
2009
f) 5mm full hard galvanised roof sheets, cranked at centre to

eliminate ridge capping; and
g) Fixed with 75. El Toro drive screws to purlin beams.
Note: 1x ridge purlin beam.
K
LIGHTING AND VENTILATION

Any
habitable
room,
bathroom,
shower-room
and
room
containing a WC shall be provided with a means of lighting and

ventilation which will enable such room to be used, without
detriment to health and safety or causing any nuisance, for the
purpose for which it is designed.
All dwellings shall be provided with the means of ventilation and
natural lighting set out in Table 3.
Table 3: Criteria for ventilation and natural lighting
DESCRIPTION
FLOOR AREA OF DWELLING

40M
Minimum window area (light area) for each habitable
5% of floor area.
room, including kitchens.

Minimum area of openable windows or controllable
5% of floor area with one opening having
ventilation
an area of at least 0,1m.
openings
for
each
habitable
room,
including kitchens.
FINISHING
The minimum specifications for finishing are:
a) External walls to receive Agrment Certified coating system;
b) Internal wall to be cement slurry-brushed (no paint);
c) Internal doors to be painted;
d) External doors to be treated with mixture of linseed oil and
turpentine and to be finished with I (one) coat polyurethane
varnish;
e) External ends of purlin beams to be treaded with cabolinium;
f) Allow for fascias and barge boards; and
g) Allow for 600mm aprons around perimeter of building.
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2009
PLUMBING
Drainage installations shall be:
a) designed and constructed so that the installation is capable
of carrying the hydraulic design load and of discharging it into
a common drain, connecting sewer or sewer provided to
accept such discharge;
b) watertight;
c) capable of sustaining the loads and forces that it may normally be
subjected to;
d) protected against any damage wherever this is necessary;
and
e) capable of being cleaned and maintained through the means
of access provided.
Drains shall be laid strictly in accordance with the requirements
of the municipality.
French drains and septic tanks shall be constructed to a size
and design approved by the municipality.
Non waterborne means of sanitation must comply with the
requirements of Section 7.4 of SABS 0252-2: Water supply and
drainage of buildings; Part 2: Drainage Installations for buildings,
all to the requirements of the municipality.
The following minimum facilities must be provided:
a) Allow for 1 x WC;
b) Allow for 1 x shower with elevated floor walls and standard
trap with trap stop to facilitate washing of clothes;
c) Allow for 1 x hand basin properly installed; and
d) Allow for 1 x sink unit properly installed with supporting 25 x
25 x 2mm steel tube frame painted to standard.
STORM WATER
The design shall provide for suitable means for the control and
disposal of accumulated storm water.
Storm water drains shall comply with the requirements of the
municipality.
33
2009
ENVIRONMENTALLY EFFICIENT HOUSING

Water Supply
The design of the water supply and the specification of devices
such as taps, showers and toilets must be in accordance with
the aims of the National Water Conservation Campaign.
Reference should be made to the document entitled A to Z of
Water Saving Devices published by the SABS and JASWIC, for
information on appropriate devices such as:
a) water conserving taps;
b) low flow rate shower-heads; and
c) dual flush toilet cisterns.
Special attention should be paid to the water saving potential of
toilet suites that are designed as a unit, to operate efficiently and
safely on a standard flush of 4,5 litres instead of the current
norm of 9 litres. Those suites that are covered by an Agrment
Certificate can be specified with confidence.
Before specifying water saving devices such as low-flow
showerheads, the designer must satisfy himself that they will
function satisfactorily with the available water pressure.
Water saving measures that are undertaken, must be compatible
with imperatives that the water supply and the sewerage
disposal systems must be safe and hygienic, and be capable of
operating
efficiently
with
only
normal
and
reasonable
maintenance.
Thermal efficiency
Designs for affordable housing must take cognisance of the
need for the resultant dwellings to be thermally efficient.
The cost constraints imposed by the subsidy scheme make it
difficult to meet this requirement. However, there are several
principles that, if followed, will enhance the thermal efficiency of
the dwelling at minimal cost. These are:
a) The longer axis of the dwelling should be orientated so that it
runs as near east/west as possible;
34
2009
b) The dwelling should be compact in plan with the rooms that

are used most and the major areas of glazing placed on the
northern side of the building to allow solar heat to penetrate
the glazing during the winter months;
c) The roof overhang to the northern wall should be sufficient to
shade the windows from midday summer sunshine; and
d) Windows facing east and west should be limited in number
and confined in area to the minimum required for daylight
and ventilation.
2.1.8 EXCEPTIONS IN THE APPLICATION OF THE NORMS AND STANDARDS
The exceptions are:
a)
The National Norms and Standards will not be mandatory in respect

of dwellings and or projects that are developed in terms of the Rural
Housing Subsidy Instrument. Rural subsidies may be used for any
purpose which, in the discretion of the MEC amount to housing
purposes; and
b)
The National Norms and Standards must be applied in respect of

dwellings and or projects that are developed in terms of the Peoples
Housing Process with the required discretion to ensure that durable
products are developed.
For instance, where beneficiaries provide
material recovered from previous buildings or obtained in the so called

second hand market, the application thereof must be considered against
the objectives of the programme but also in view of the consumer
protection objectives of the Government.
The Environmental Guidelines in the following section should also be
considered.
2.2 BROADER ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES
Environmental issues are inherently linked with the quality of life. Settlements are
often strongly influenced by access to resources in the environment. Settlements
and the activities that take place in them alter the environment in which they are set.
Environmentally sound human settlements are characterised by good air quality,
energy and water efficient homes, with planting that provides green lungs or even
food security. These may be seen as healthy, sustainable settlements which
provide quality living environments. The promotion of settlements with these
attributes would bring social, economic and environmental benefits to South Africa.
35
2009
2.2.1 RATIONALE FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND HOUSING

Although South Africa has introduced a wide range of policies, strategies,
programmes and plans to address housing challenges, so far not much
has been done to encourage any consideration of environmentally sound
practices. The result is that many of the countrys residential habitats are
smoggy, barren wastelands, which detract from the quality of life of the
residents. The South African housing programmes address the housing
backlog and demand through various subsidy schemes. Through these,
hundreds of low cost houses are being built every day, but most of these
are built without any consideration of environmentally sound principles. If
these interventions are taken into account at the inception phase of each
project, it would ensure that quality of life is attained.
2.2.2 PURPOSE AND STRUCTURE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES
This section aims to recommend energy and water efficiency initiatives
in the housing sector. It focuses on the product being delivered through
the National Housing Programme. Therefore, emphasis has been
placed on no-cost and very low-cost options throughout this document.
Recommended interventions have also been limited to the individual
housing sites and structures, as communal services are generally
beyond the scope of the housing developers.
2.3 COMPONENTS OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND HOUSING
This guideline proposes interventions in the housing product through two major
aspects to the development of environmentally sound low cost housing namely
sustainable energy and sustainable water.
2.3.1 SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
Sustainable Energy Efficient Housing has two components:
Energy Efficiency
More often than not, in the rush to deliver housing in large numbers in
view of the immense backlog, a unique opportunity to provide
environmentally
sustainable
and
energy
efficient
units
is
being
overlooked. The relatively gentle climate that South Africa enjoys has
also resulted in a fairly complacent attitude to energy efficient building
construction amongst housing developers. The result is that low cost
housing is not designed to take advantage of the climate. Houses tend to
be cold in winter and hot in summer, and require significant energy
36
2009
consumption and household expenditure in winter to achieve some level

of comfort.
As a result, the energy consumption patterns of low income households
in South Africa have emerged as one of the most important factors
influencing the national electricity demand and the high levels of air
pollution (mainly due to coal used for space heating) experienced in
urban areas. If sound energy principles are not incorporated into the
design of low cost housing, beneficiaries are condemned to a future of
high energy consumption. This situation is exacerbated by local air
quality problems, compromised family health and worker productivity, and
increased greenhouse gas concentrations.
Energy efficiency can be defined as the realisation of a higher energy
service per given unit of energy input. This results in energy conservation
which ensures that households can improve their standard of living
without necessarily consuming more energy. An energy efficient house is
naturally thermally comfortable, makes the best use of available energy
and does not require large amounts of energy in its day-to-day running,
while minimising negative environmental impact. For housing to be truly
energy efficient, the climatic conditions of the particular area in which it is
located should be taken into consideration.
Energy efficient housing can be enhanced by two aspects, design
considerations for thermally efficient housing and materials and
technologies for the construction of energy efficient housing. These are
discussed in detail below:
Design Considerations
Energy efficient housing is largely informed by natural elements such as
the sun, wind and rain. Therefore, in order to optimise these natural
forces influence on the buildings, the planning, location and orientation of
the housing is a critical concern. At a micro-level, the layout of the house
also needs to maximise climatic forces.
Orientation
Passive solar design involves applying energy flow principles and climate
characteristics of a region in the design, construction and management of
houses, so as to achieve thermal comfort with minimal conventional energy
input. The basic components of passive solar design incorporate the
orientation of the house, optimising the use of direct natural sunlight, and
utilising thermally efficient building materials. Applying these principles
37
2009
provides a low cost or no cost intervention and is applicable in all climatic

regions.
Passive solar design can reduce the energy requirements to keep the
house comfortable. It implies that houses in the Southern Hemisphere
should face towards geographic north in order to obtain optimal solar
benefit. Houses which point north have most windows facing north, and
as a result they would have the least heat gain in summer and the least
heat loss in winter, keeping the indoor air temperature comfortable. The
orientation of houses should be an integral part of planning and design.
House Plan and Layout
While the housing unit should face north, the internal arrangement of the
living spaces is equally important. The plan should be designed to
maximise interior space while minimising exterior wall area, from which
heat loss will occur in winter. In other words, housing units should be
designed so that the smallest wall area is exposed to the outside and the
units should be as close to a square shape as possible. Windows and
doors should be placed in the north side of the house to ensure that
sunlight enters the house and warms the floor. A roof overhang must be
built on the northern side of the house to shade the windows in summer.
Living spaces should be arranged so that the rooms where people spend most
of their hours are located on the northern side of the unit. Uninhabited rooms
such as bathrooms and storerooms can be used to screen unwanted western
sun or to prevent heat loss on south-facing facades. Living rooms and kitchens
should ideally be placed on the northern side.
Energy Efficient Materials and Technology
Energy efficiency in housing is not only informed by natural elements like
the sun, wind and rain but also by the kinds of building material used,
hence the concept of passive thermal design. Passive thermal design
entails using appropriate building materials which are able to store heat
during the day and release this heat slowly at night. Building materials
have properties which influence their performance in terms of energy
efficiency. All of these properties affect the flow of heat through the
materials and therefore affect the temperatures indoors. Some of these
properties include:
a)
The degree to which a material reflects heat;
b)
The capacity of a material to store heat (thermal mass); and
c)
The degree to which a material conducts heat.
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2009
Insulation
Insulation is a key method for ensuring energy efficiency in housing by
reducing heat flow into or out of the unit. Insulation effectively keeps a
house cooler on a hot day, and warmer on a cold one. Insulation can be
achieved by using any number of materials which have very poor
conductive properties, or very high reflective properties.
In houses, most heat is lost and gained through the roof. Using a reflective
roofing material on the outside is useful, but the installation of a ceiling is
generally regarded as a cost-effective solution. A roof without ceiling allows
heat to be lost easily in cold weather and may result in overheating in
summer. By placing insulation material (such as fibreglass wool, layers of
paper or paper pulp, polystyrene sheets or old blankets) directly above the
ceiling, households can save almost half of the energy used for space
heating in winter.
Walls can also be insulated. There are various methods to insulate a wall.
Building a cavity wall (two parallel walls with an air gap between) is seen
as the most effective method of insulation, but it is also the most
expensive method and therefore not widely applied. Another method is to
plaster walls, or to use panels (also called construction boards). These
panels are either used as an add-on to the walls and thus function as an
insulation layer or to fulfil the wall function themselves and have a
structural function.
Flooring
Floors are an important component to achieve thermal efficiency in
houses. Flooring material should be of high thermal mass, such as
concrete, bricks or clay, to trap heat and solar radiation coming in through
the windows. The heat is slowly released at night. Single storey
residential units can basically use the high thermal mass floor slabs and
the soil underneath it as thermal mass. Multi-storey residential blocks
have the disadvantage that they only have the ground floor with this
thermal advantage. Adding thermal mass to upper storeys by adding
heavyweight material beyond constructional requirements involves high
costs and is often considered to be too expensive.
Windows
Another prime example of regulating heat flow in low cost housing is
through the windows. Big-sized windows should be north oriented to
allow maximum heating. Windows can be shaded by a deciduous tree in
39
2009
the summer, which will lose its leaves in winter to allow the sunshine
through. A roof overhang can be built which shades the window in
summer, and allows the sunshine in during winter.
Table 4: Summary of Recommendations and Cost Implications:
RECOMMENDATION
BENEFIT
COST
RESPONSIBILITY
The longer axis of dwelling units should be

orientated as near to East-West as possible,
and the most window surface should be on
the North side.
Energy
Savings to
Beneficiaries
No direct
cost
ND - Incentives
North walls and roofs of new housing units

must not be shaded by neighbouring buildings
or landforms.
Energy
Savings to
Beneficiaries
Planners - Concept
DevelopersImplementation
No direct
cost
ND - Incentives
Planners - Concept
Local climatic conditions such as prevailing

winds should be considered when planning a
housing development.
Energy
Savings to
Beneficiaries
Possible
marginal
Design
costs
ND - Incentives
No direct
cost
ND - Incentives
Planners - Concept
Housing units should be designed, so that the

smallest area is exposed to the outside. In
other words, units should be as close to
square as possible, with rooms where people
spend most of their waking hours located on
the Northern side of the unit.
Energy
Savings to
Beneficiaries
All housing units should be well insulated in

order to ensure energy efficiency.
Significant
Energy
Savings to
Beneficiaries
Cost of
material
and
installation
ND - Incentive
Energy
Savings to
Beneficiaries
Additional
building
cost
(overhang)
ND - Incentive
None
DME - Incentives and

Awareness
North-facing windows should be shaded in

Summer and sunny in Winter.
Designers should ensure that housing is able

to safely accommodate the use of fuels and
appliances, and advise households on
appropriate and safe fuel use.
Designers - Concept
Health
benefits and
reduced cost
of fuel
Designers - Concept
ContractorsImplementation
Designers - Concept
Contractors Implementation
2.3.2 SUSTAINABLE WATER

Sustainable water has the following components:
Water efficient low cost housing
South Africa has limited and erratic rainfall, and is essentially a dry,
drought-prone country. Evaporation rates are exceptionally high, and the
40
2009
ground-water reserves in South Africa are small and increasingly fragile.

Year by year, additional sources of water are becoming both more
difficult to find and more expensive to develop.
Through the increasing demand resulting from population growth and
urbanisation, industrial development and agricultural needs, water is
becoming an increasingly scarce commodity. If this increasing demand
exceeds the potential supply, we will be faced with a permanent water
crisis.
In the current policy environment water is now regarded as a
national resource. The effective management of this scarce resource,

not only in South Africa but also in other Southern African countries, is
critical to the continued development of the region in general and the
country in particular. It is, therefore, essential that everyone, including
housing developers and designers; plays a part in conserving water.
The following components of water efficient low cost housing will be
discussed: Design Considerations for Efficient Water Systems in Low
Cost Housing; and the use of Water Saving Devices and Technologies.
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Layout
In small buildings, such as low cost houses, very little consideration is
given to the layout of plumbing systems. This is mainly due to the fact
that building design is often completed and construction started before
the plumbing contractor is employed. In such cases, optimal layout is
difficult to achieve.
One of the primary causes of persistent water wastage in domestic
dwellings is the dead leg in the hot water system, a long pipe run from
the water heater to a supply point. This causes much cooled water to be
drawn off before hot water is discharged. Energy waste is also of concern
in this scenario.
Pipe Sizing
The optimum pipe sizing is essential to the performance of many of the
water saving devices.
Water Pressure
The pressure at which water is distributed within a building can have an
effect on water consumption for a number of reasons. Water supplied to a
point of use at a higher pressure than necessary causes wastage
because more water is discharged from the tap or other fitting in a given
41
2009
period of time than is necessary to perform the function (such as rinsing a

cup or washing hands). A lower pressure will, in most cases, not detract
from the utility of the supply. Higher pressures also increase the amount
of water lost due to leakage. While adequate maintenance should be
done to prevent leaks, high pressures do make the problem worse when
they occur.
The plumbing designer is able to determine what the pressure should be
as pressure is controlled by the installation of a pressure reducing valve
(PRV). Ideally installed at a point close to where the supply enters the
building, the PRV will also ensure that all water supplies in the building
are balanced (i.e. both hot and cold water are supplied at the same
pressure). This is necessary to avoid problems with the use of mixing
devices (such as showers and taps) which, if used with unbalanced
supplies, can result in continuous discharge of water from the pressure
relief valve of the hot water system. If a balanced system in not used,
then the use of mixing fittings should be avoided and the selection of
appropriate water-saving devices must be handled with care.
Plumbing Fittings
It is pertinent that the Engineer/Designer for plumbing fittings understand
all the various guidelines, policies, standards and best management
practices for water supply systems design and plumbing.
SECONDARY WATER USE (GREY WATER) AND RAINWATER
HARVESTING
Grey water refers to the reuse of water drained from baths, showers,
washing machines, and sinks (household wastewater excluding toilet
wastes) for irrigation and other water conservation applications. Contrary
to common belief, grey water is not an entirely safe product, as it
contains bacteria and other potential pathogens. It should therefore be
used with caution.
Rainwater harvesting is the process of intercepting storm-water runoff
and putting it to beneficial use. Rainwater is usually collected or
harvested from rooftops, concrete patios, driveways and other impervious
surfaces. Buildings and landscapes can be designed to maximize the
amount of catchment area, thereby increasing rainwater harvesting
possibilities. Intercepted water then can be collected, detained, retained
and routed for use in evaporative coolers, toilet flushing, pet and car
42
2009
washing, indoor plant watering, pet and livestock watering, and for lawn
and garden irrigation.
WATER SAVING DEVICES
Advances in technology mean that water-saving devices are continuously
being updated and new ones appear on the market on a regular basis.
These include the following:
Toilet Systems
With the severe affordability constraints in the subsidised housing sector,
developers often provide on site sanitation. VIPs and composting toilets
are generally regarded as being environmentally sound. However, care
must be taken in the design of on site sanitation, as improper design may
lead to ground water contamination.
In the case of waterborne sewerage, the most common toilet system in
domestic use is one which uses a cistern, usually either low-level or
close-coupled. For optimum water conservation a low-volume or dualflush type should be used. These cisterns should be used with a pan
designed to be used with low flush volumes.
Taps
Water conserving taps with a lower flow rate than previously accepted as
the norm should preferably be selected for all new installations. These
are designed to give comparable levels of utility while using less water.
Taps fitted over wash basins do not need to provide a high rate of flow.
Another option which is suitable in certain situations is the metering tap,
which delivers a pre-determined, but adjustable, quantity of water when
operated.
Table 5: Summary of Recommendations and Cost Implications:
RECOMMENDATION
BENEFIT
All plumbing layout and

design in low cost housing
should be determined in
conjunction with the design of
the structure
Savings on
materials and
construction; water
& energy
conservation
Contractors
fees
Water conservation
Communication
costs
DWEA - Awareness and

Incentives
Savings in
materials and
construction; and
water and energy
conservation
Possible
additional
material costs
ND - Incentives
Dead Legs should be

avoided by careful siting of
the components of the hot
water system
COST
RESPONSIBILITY
ND - Incentives
Designers & Contractors Concept
Contractors - Implementation
Designers - Concept
43
| PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE) | 2009

COST
RESPONSIBILITY
RECOMMENDATION
Reduce water pressure to an
optimal level according to the
specifications for the devices
used in the plumbing system.
BENEFIT
Water savings
Cost of
Pressure
Reducing Valve
(PRV)
DWEA & ND - Incentives

Designers & Contractors Concept
Consideration
should
be
given to the use of secondary
(grey) water when designing
any new water installation.
Significant
savings
It is important to specify the

use of a low-volume or dualflush toilet system.
Water savings
water
Cost of Devices
or
additional
materials
DWEA & ND IncentivesDesigners &

Contractors - Concept
Cost of fitting

Designer - Specification
Contractor - Implementation
Choose a low flow tap fitted

with a ventilator / flow
controller or spray nozzle.
Water savings
Cost of fitting

Low flow rate shower heads

should be specified for all
new installations.
Water savings
Cost of fitting

2.4 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

2.4.1 THE SITE
Location and siting are important in terms of energy-efficiency. The
following recommendations relate to the site:
a)
Topographic conditions can affect solar radiation. Therefore steep

south-facing slopes should be avoided in areas with cold winters;
b)
Existing landforms, trees and buildings cast shadows which should

be taken into account when locating a housing development;
c)
Local climatic conditions such as rainfall patterns and prevailing

winds should be considered when planning a housing development;
and
d)
Site planning needs to be sensitive to the principles of both energy

and water-efficiency.
Recommendations which apply include:

a)
Housing units should (as far as possible) face in a Northerly

direction, i.e. the longer axis of the dwelling should be orientated as
44
2009
near to East-West as possible, and the most window surface should

be on the North side;
b)
Appropriate indigenous, deciduous trees should be planted to shade

the Northern facade of all housing units; and
c)
Reasonable measures must be taken to prevent groundwater

contamination by poorly designed sanitation systems.
2.4.2 INFRASTRUCTURE PROVISION

The following considerations should be taken into account:
a)
Water pressure to the site should be reduced to an optimal level

according to the specifications for the devices used in the plumbing
system; and
b)
Serious consideration should be given to the use of secondary (grey)

water when designing any new water installation.
2.4.3 THE HOUSE

HOUSING PLAN
All plumbing layout and design in low cost housing should be determined
in conjunction with the design of the structure.
Dead Legs should be avoided by careful siting of the components of the
hot water system. All exposed pipe work, particularly in roof spaces or on
outside walls should also be suitably lagged.
HOUSING ELEMENTS
a)
All housing units should be well insulated in order to ensure energy

efficiency;
b)
Low flow taps fitted with ventilator/ flow controllers or spray nozzles
should be used;
c)
A low volume or dual-flush toilet system should be used;
d)
Low flow rate shower heads should be specified for all new
installations; and
e)
Appropriate, indigenous, deciduous trees should be planted to shade

the North-facing windows and walls of all housing units.
2.4.4 RETROFITTING
While the retrofitting of energy and water efficient devices and materials
has not been discussed within the document, it should be pointed out that
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2009
there are ways in which certain cost effective retrofitting can be

implemented. For instance, an insulating ceiling can be fitted at any time
after the housing unit has been completed.
2.4.5 DANGEROUS PRACTICES
There are certain housing construction practices that pose a risk to human
health. These include:
The use of asbestos building materials
Asbestos is a dangerous building material. Studies have shown that the
inhalation of asbestos dust can cause severe health problems. As there
are a number of alternative products which are easily available that do
not cost more than asbestos products, and conform to the Standards and
Guidelines of the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC),
the use of asbestos building products has been totally banned in the
construction of houses in South Africa.
2.4.6 DAMP
Damp in housing is often linked to a higher incidence of respiratory
diseases. It is therefore very important that all new housing is adequately
damp-proofed, and that the quality of concrete blocks is controlled to
ensure that they do not absorb water.
2.4.7 INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Poor air quality has been linked to a raised incidence of respiratory
disease. Dangerous levels of carbon monoxide and smoke have been
measured in poorly ventilated new housing where coal, wood and/or
paraffin are being used.
2.4.8 EMISSION OF DANGEROUS CHEMICALS
There are many other building materials and services which can have a
detrimental effect on human health and well-being because of harmful
emissions. Concrete and granite can emit radon gas, synthetic materials,
paints and adhesives release volatile organic compounds, PVC used for
pipes, fittings and vinyl floor coverings releases dioxins during
manufacturing, use and disposal. These harmful properties should be
kept in mind when specifications are drawn up.
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2009
2.4.9 SITING OF HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS

Care must be taken when siting housing in relation to other land-uses
such as landfills, noxious industry or offensive trade. There is
environmental health risks associated with such locational issues.
47
2009
48
2009

Programmes
3 Variation Manual
Guidelines
49
2009
50
2009
VARIATION MANUAL
3.1 VARIATION MANUAL (ADJUSTMENT OF THE HOUSING SUBSIDY SCHEME

AMOUNT FOR EXTRAORDINARY DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS)
3.1.1 DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS
The following terms and expressions shall have the meanings assigned
to them hereunder:
a)
Precautionary Measures - the preventative measures required to

ensure a durable product with investment value.
b)
Extraordinary Development Conditions - conditions that require

intensive precautionary measures to ensure a durable product with
investment value.
c)
Adjustment of Subsidy Amount - the quantum with which the

subsidy amount must be increased to ensure a durable product with
investment value.
d)
Geotechnical Conditions - geologically related conditions (soil,

groundwater, etc.) that can influence the quality of the housing
product if precautionary measures are not implemented.
e)
Topographical Conditions - the natural ground slope of the site

that can influence the quality of the housing product if precautionary
measures are not implemented.
f)
Physical Disability - degrees of disability that require special

additions or alterations to the housing product.
g)
Appropriately Qualified Professional Expert - a professional

person with the necessary qualifications and relevant experience to
provide the required input.
The following abbreviations shall have the meanings assigned to them

hereunder:
MEC
Member of Executive Council
ND
National Department of human Settlements
NHBRC -
National Home Builders Registration Council
CSIR
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
USCS
Unified Soil Classification System

51
SP
Sand poorly graded
SM
Silty sand
CL
Inorganic clays of low to medium plasticity
SH
Inorganic clays of high plasticity
PE
Potential expansiveness
CDS
Category of differential swell
CP
Collapse potential
ConP
Consolidation potential
2009
3.2 BACKGROUND
The new Housing Policy emphasises the provision of durable, quality housing that will
have an investment value for the beneficiary. To ensure the achievement of this
objective in all circumstances, the adjustment of the subsidy amount will be allowed to
finance only the required precautionary measures to cater for extraordinary
development conditions.
This adjustment will be based on the geo-technical and
topographical conditions of the development area and the special housing needs of
certain categories of disabled beneficiaries.
With regard to the geotechnical and topographical dimension, the policy provides for
professional investigation and qualification of the extraordinary development conditions.
It also requires professional designs and specifications, including costing of the required
precautionary measures to ensure durable, quality housing provision through the
programme.
With regard to the special housing needs of certain categories of disabled
beneficiaries, the variation option is focused on the specific housing needs of
disabled beneficiaries, or beneficiaries with disabled dependents, and enhancement
to their houses to afford them the opportunity of independent living.
3.3 PURPOSE
This manual replaces the previous variation system as the intent of the new housing
policy is to ensure the delivery of the highest quality housing products that are
acceptable to the beneficiaries and that will ensure durable products with
investment value.
The purpose of the manual is to provide a basis for decision-making regarding the
adjustment of the subsidy amount. The manual addresses all the extraordinary
development conditions that might require special precautionary measures.
It
52
2009
specifies the precautionary measures applicable in each case and the cost thereof
to facilitate accurate and streamlined decision-making processes.
The manual provides guidelines for the adjustment of the subsidy amount. While it
addresses the various areas in the country where special precautionary measures
may be required, the application of the subsidy adjustment remains dependant on
the professional assessment of each specific development area. The nature of the
occurrence of extraordinary development conditions is such that it may be required
to assess each stand independently.
All housing applications will be registered on a proper monitoring system that will
activate a warning signal if the project falls within predetermined areas where
extraordinary geotechnical and topographical conditions may be present.
If the
Developer has not applied for the adjustment in the subsidy amount, the project
application must be returned with a notice that extraordinary geotechnical and
topographical conditions may be present and that the necessary investigations must
be done and the required information submitted before project approval will be
considered.
The information supplied (detailed engineering reports) in the
Developers application for the adjustment of the subsidy amount, will be checked
against the allowable adjustment for each extraordinary geotechnical and
topographical condition for approval. Only the specified allowable adjustment for
each condition will be considered.
The manual therefore provides an early warning system together with guidelines for
the adjustment of the subsidy amount, once conditions and the required
precautionary measures are confirmed.
3.4 POLICY STATEMENT
To comply with the objective of the new housing policy:
a) Developers must investigate the proposed development site for any extraordinary
development conditions as identified in the manual before submission of the
application;
b) This investigation and confirmation of the existence of extraordinary conditions
must be done by appropriately qualified professional experts;
c) All precautionary measures must be confirmed and designed by appropriately
qualified professional experts;
d) The construction and/or installation of the precautionary measures must be
supervised by appropriately qualified professional experts; and
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2009
e) The responsible appropriately qualified professional experts must certify in writing

compliance with the design and construction specifications of the precautionary
measures.
Since the Housing Subsidy Scheme provides housing for the poor, certain proposed
development sites, or specific areas within a development site, may not be
economically viable for housing for the poor. In these circumstances a threshold of
20% adjustment of the subsidy amount on a development site and 30% adjustment
of the subsidy amount on a specific erf, excluding adjustment for the Southern Cape
Coastal Condensation Area, location of the Development Site and provision for the
disabled, will be applicable.
The subsidy adjustment amount for specific conditions will be the same for all levels
of beneficiaries.
3.5 DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS THAT REQUIRE SPECIAL PRECAUTIONARY
MEASURES, THE MEASURES TO ADDRESS THESE CONDITIONS AND THE
QUANTIFICATION OF THE ADJUSTMENT OF THE SUBSIDY AMOUNT
Any housing subsidy project application that includes an application for an
adjustment of the subsidy amount due to extraordinary development conditions will
require quantitative verification in the form of a comprehensive report by an
appropriately qualified professional expert to the specifications of the NHBRC and
the MEC.
The standard housing development registration procedure involves the indication of
the precise location of the proposed development in the form of co-ordinates in
Latitude and Longitude (WGS 84 system). This information, combined with the
national maps included at the end of this Variation Manual, will provide an
immediate indication of the possible geo-technical and topographical conditions that
may be applicable at a specific area or site.
3.5.1 DESCRIPTION OF GEO-TECHNICAL CONDITIONS AND
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES
The application for the adjustment of the subsidy amount for geotechnical conditions will have to include the NHBRC Phase I
investigation,
usually
comprising
investigation
culminating
in
standard
preliminary
Site
geo-technical
Class
soils
Designation
boundaries, also to be submitted as part of the developers project

enrolment submission to the NHBRC.
All Phase I geo-technical
investigations must conform to the Geo-technical Site Investigations for

Housing Developments: Generic Specification GFSH-2, dated September
2002 and published by the National Department.
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2009
All preliminary assessments for the adjustment of subsidy amounts to

cater for extraordinary geo-technical conditions will be assisted by the
consultation of the appropriate maps (Figures 1 to 8) contained in the
Appendix. These Figures are intended to delineate those areas within
South Africa where adequate information and confirmation of the specific
condition have been made.
To a certain extent, the majority of these categories will require specific
site analysis. Any site situated outside the boundaries indicated on these
Figures will also require adequate confirmation of site conditions
(contained in a NHBRC Phase 1 geo-technical report) before adjustment
of subsidy amounts can be approved.
The subsequent Phase 2 investigation is normally completed during the
construction phase and entails the mapping of service trenches and the
finalisation of Site Class Designations and the completion of enrolment
forms.
The
following
geo-technical
conditions
have
been
identified
as
extraordinary conditions that will require precautionary measures to

ensure a quality housing product:
a)
Seepage/Groundwater (see Figure 1);
b)
Verification categories:
i)
Category 1 - Permanent or perched water table less than 1.0m

below ground level;
ii)
Category 2 - Permanent or perched water table more than

1.0m but less than 1.5 m below ground level; and
c)
Verification Methodology:
Figure 1 indicates the areas in South
Africa where shallow groundwater (less than 10 m) occurs.

Definitive quantification of seepage/groundwater conditions can only be
made through the standard inspection pit profiling required during the
completion of the NHBRC Phase 1 geo-technical investigation.
As a standard, the seepage or groundwater level should be measured at
the time of profiling and again at least 1 hour after the excavation.
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2009
Table 6: Seepage/Groundwater - Precautionary Measures

Category 1
Subsurface drainage
+ Improved damp proofing to houses
+ Dewatering of service trenches during construction
Category 2
Dewatering of service trenches during construction
3.5.2 ERODIBILITY OF SOIL

See Figure 2.
Category 1 (high risk) - An erodibility index of 18 and Unified Soil
Classification System (USCS) classification of the upper 750mm of
SP (sand poorly graded), SM (silty sand), CL (inorganic clays of low
to medium plasticity) or CH (inorganic clays of high plasticity) and
ground slope greater than 1:7.5 or degree of dispersion greater than
40%.
Category 2 (medium risk) - An erodibility index of 915 and USCS
classification of the upper 750mm of SP, SM, CL or CH and ground
slope greater than 1:7.5 or degree of dispersion greater than 40%.
Verification methodology:
Figure 2 indicates the variation in the Erodibility Index in South Africa as
determined in a study completed in 1992 for the Water Research
Commission.
Site specific information contained in the Phase I Geo-technical
Investigation Report should include standard foundation indicator testing
including a grading analysis and soil classification according to the
Unified Soil Classification System together with double hydrometer tests
to confirm if dispersion is suspected (United States Army Corps of USDA
Soil Conservation (SCS)).
The provision of these parameters and indications will be used to identify
qualifications for subsidy adjustments.
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2009
Table 7: Erodibility of Soil - Precautionary Measures

Category 1
Provision of retaining walls

+ Earthworks to reduce slopes
+ Surface drainage
Category 2
Provision of retaining walls

+ Earthworks to reduce slopes
3.5.3 HARD EXCAVATION

Verification categories according to sans 1200d:
a)
Category 1 - Hard rock excavation (material that cannot be removed

without blasting or wedging and splitting) as % to a depth of 1.5m;
and
b)
Category 2 - Boulder excavation (material containing boulders

ranging in size between 0.03m3 and 20m3) to a depth of 1.5m.
The Phase 1 Geotechnical Investigation Report must identify areas within
a development site where the different categories of shallow hard
excavation occur.
Table 8: Hard Excavation - Precautionary Measures
Category 1
Additional cost of trench excavation
Category 2
Additional cost of trench excavation

+ Additional cost of road excavation
+ Additional cost of foundation excavation
3.5.4 DOLOMITE
See Figure 3.
Category 1:
Class P (dolomite) and anticipated inherent Risk Class

1 and 2: Dolomite Area Class D2. Site Class
designation must be done in accordance with Sections
2.5 and 2.8 of Part 1 of the NHBRC Home Builders
Manual.
57
Category 2:
2009
Class P (dolomite) and anticipated inherent Risk Class

3, 4 and 5: Dolomite Area Class D3. Site Class
designation must be done in accordance with Sections
2.5 and 2.8 of Part 1 of the NHBRC Home Builders
Manual.
Areas underlain by dolomite (including those areas with up to 100m
cover of Karoo or other inert overburden material) will also require the
additional submission of a dolomite stability investigation report
comprising a gravity survey and target percussion drilling.
The well-documented occurrence of dolomite is shown in Figure 3 on a
National scale and in more detail in the separate Provincial maps, in
particular Gauteng. Included on this latter map are the additional areas
of deeper dolomite overlain by up to 100 m of Karoo sediments or other
inert overburden material.
The inherent Dolomite Stability Risk Class and Dolomite Area Class will be
determined by a thorough dolomite stability investigation comprising a
gravity survey and percussion drilling according to accepted norms and
under the guidance of the Council for Geo-science.
Table 9: Dolomite - Precautionary Measures
Category 1
Design and construction of township services in accordance with Section

2.8.3 of Part 1 of NHBRC Home Building Manual
+ Additional cost of foundations in accordance with Joint Structural
Divisions COP (1995).
L Raft
Category 2
Design and construction of township services in accordance with Section

2.8.3 of Part 1 of NHBRC Home Building Manual
L Raft
3.5.5 EXPANSIVE CLAYS (SITE CLASS H2 AND H3)

See Figure 4.
Category 1: (Medium): Class H1 classified in accordance with Section
2.5 of Part 1 of the NHBRC Home Builders
Manual.
58
Category 2: (High):
2009
Class H2 classified in accordance with Section

Manual.
Category 3: (Very High): Class H3 classified in accordance with Section

Manual.
Figure 4 indicates the areas in South Africa where expansive clays occur.
Thus the following criteria should be used to determine the Category for
expansive clays:
a)
As a preliminary estimate of the potential ground movements, the

unit potential expansiveness (or potential expansiveness or PE)
method proposed by Van der Merwe (1975) is suggested.
b)
The empirical method expresses unit potential expansiveness in

millimetres of heave movement per metre of potentially expansive profile
according to the following ranges:
c)
i)
Low potential expansiveness - 0mm heave;
ii)
Medium potential expansiveness - 20mm heave;
iii)
High potential expansiveness - 40mm heave; and
iv)
Very high potential expansiveness - 80mm heave.
The alternative and more precise adapted method of Weston(1982)

is also advised. Westons percent swell equation has been adapted to
provide a more realistic indication of the swell difference between the
projected driest and wettest conditions. These conditions will be
dependent on the prevailing climate at the site but in general has been
conservatively established by CSIR research (for red soils) as:
i)
Driest moisture condition = 0.4 (liquid limit %

passing 425 micron); and
ii)
Wettest moisture condition = 0.8 (liquid limit %

passing 425 micron).
d)
Westons percent swell equation is then manipulated for each

extreme condition and the swell difference in % is taken as the
representative swell for the profile.
59
e)
2009
The Category of Differential Swell (CDS) proposed by Pellissier (JP

Pellissier, 1993 : SAICE Journal : Technical Note : Third Quarter :
pp 29-32) can then be calculated using the following expression:
i)
CDS: Lp.Cm.Ms.1000{SUM PDEi.Fi};
ii)
Lp:
load factor taking the effect of the perimeter load into

account;
iii)
Cm:
climatic factor tacking the effect of the climate into

account;
iv)
Ms:
modification factor taking settlement into the overlying

soft soil into account;
v)
i:
vi)
n:
layer number;
number of 1m thick layers defined in the expansive
profile;
vii)
PDEi: potential differential expansiveness for the ith layer; and
viii)
F:
correction factor for the th

i layer, taking the heave
suppression into consideration.
Determination of the required stiffness in detailed raft design is dependent on

the perimeter wall load and the correct prediction of the hang-off distance,
which in turn is dependent on the swelling properties of the clay, the moisture
change due to the building coverage, the heave suppression of the clay and
the cushioning effect of any overlying inert layer.
The CDS empirically incorporates the two most important factors controlling
the hang-off distance of a raft, and these are the differential swell of the
expansive soil and the modulus of reaction of the soil.
60
2009
Table 10: Expansive Clays - Precautionary Measures

Foundation design, building procedures and pre-cautionary measures in
accordance with Table 5 of Section 2, Part 1, NHBRC Home Building Manual:
Category 1
Modified normal
accordance with Table 5 of Section,2, Part 1, NHBRC Home Building Manual:
Category 2
L raft (low PE 5<CDS<20); Or

M raft (med PE 20<CDS<40).
Category 3
H raft (high PE 40<CDS<60); Or

Sp raft (v high PE & CDS>60).
3.5.6 COLLAPSING SANDS (SITE CLASS C2)

See Figure 5.
Category 1:
Class C1 classified in accordance with Section 2.5 of

Part 1 of the NHBRC Home Builders Manual.
Category 2:
Class C2 classified in accordance with Section 2.5 of

In order to estimate the required raft size (light, medium, heavy or
special) the collapse potential proposed by Jennings and Knight (1975) is
the suggested determinant.
The collapse potential (CP200) of the soil is determined from a single
consolidometer test performed on the sample soaked under a loading of
200 kPa. The collapse potential is given by:
CP200 = {ec2 ec1 / 1 + e0 }. 100%
WHERE:
a)
ec2 is the measured void ratio of the sample just prior to inundation at
200kPa;
b)
ec1 represents the void ratio of the sample measured just after
inundation at 200kPa;
61
c)
2009
e0 represents the initial void ratio of the sample at the bedding-in

loading; and
d)
The higher the value of CP200 (Collapse Potential), the more severe
the problem becomes.
Table 11:Collapsing Sands - Precautionary Measures

Category 1

Modified normal; Or
Compaction below footings; Or
Deep strip footings
Category 2

accordance with Table 6 of Section 2, Part 1, NHBRC Home Building
Manual:
Stiffened strip footings; Or
Deep strip foundations; Or
L raft (collapse potential 1 5%); Or
M raft (Collapse potential 5 10%); Or
H raft (collapse potential 10 20%); Or
Sp raft (collapse potential >20%)
3.5.7 COMPRESSIBLE SOILS (SITE CLASS S2)

See Figure 5.
Category 1:
Class S1 classified in accordance with Section 2.5 of

Category 2:
Class S2 classified in accordance with Section 2.5 of

The verification criteria for compressible soils will be similar as for the
collapsing sands with the exception that the percent consolidation should
be determined using the single consolidometer test, measuring the
consolidation potential (ConP) at the loading equivalent to a single-storey
house, i.e. 20 kPa to 30 kPa.
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2009
Table 12: Compressible Soils - Precautionary Measures

Category 1

Modified normal; Or
Deep strip footings
Category 2

Deep strip footings; Or
L raft (consolidation potential 1 5%); Or
M raft (consolidation potential 5 10%); Or
H raft (consolidation potential 10 20%); Or
Sp raft (consolidation potential > 20%)
3.5.8
MINING SUBSIDENCE
See Figure 6.
Category 1:
Old under-mining to a depth of between 90 m240 m

below the surface where stope closure has ceased and
designation in accordance with Sub-section 2.5 of the
NHBRC Home Builders Manual.
Category 2:
Mining within a depth of between 90 m240 m below

the surface or where total extraction has taken place
and designation in accordance with Sub-section 2.5 of
the NHBRC Home Builders Manual.
Figure 6 shows the occurrence of any mining concern within South
Africa.
This information includes operating mines, existing un-mined
resources and abandoned or exhausted mines. These areas by no

means indicate that under-mining will be a condition but give a
suggestion that further studies will be required to identify the following
possible conditions:
63
a)
2009
Old under-mining to a depth 90 m to 240 m below surface where

stope closure has ceased;
b)
Mining to within < 90 m to 240 m of surface or where total extraction

mining has taken place;
c)
Presence of un-mined resources and/or long-term mining lease

agreements; and
d)
Contamination of sub-soils and/or groundwater by either acid mine

drainage (AMD) or high Uranium/Radon levels.
Table 13: Mining Subsidence - Precautionary Measures

Category 1
Additional cost of foundation design and building procedures as per specialist

literature and may include:
M Raft
Category 2
Additional cost of foundation design and building procedures as per specialist

literature and may include:
Additional earthworks to fill open outcrop; Or
Soil mattress
3.5.9
SEISMIC ACTIVITY
See Figure 7.
Category 1:
Mining induced seismic activity > 100 cm/s.
Category 2:
Natural seismic activity > 100 cm/s.
Figure 7 shows the variation in mining induced seismic activity (generally
confined to Gauteng and Free State) and natural seismic activity. The
lower limit of 100 cm/s2 has been used as the base level for qualification
for subsidy adjustments.
64
2009
Table 14: Seismic Activity - Precautionary Measures

Additional cost of:
Category 1

H Raft
Additional cost of:
Category 2

H Raft
DESCRIPTION OF TOPOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS AND

The report to apply for the adjustment of the subsidy amount for
topographical conditions will have to include a contour survey and/or
proof that the site falls into the Southern Cape Coastal Condensation
Area (SCCCA).
3.5.10 TOPOGRAPHY OF THE SITE
Category 1:
Average ground slope flatter than 1:100.
Category 2:
Average ground slope of between 1:10 and 1:20.
Category 3:
Average ground slope of between 1:7.5 and 1:10.
Category 4:
Average ground slope of between 1:5 and 1:7.5.
Category 5:
Average ground slope of more than 1:5.
The topography of the site will be determined by a land survey completed
to 1 m contour interval accuracy.
Alternatively, existing published ortho-photographs at a scale of 1:10,000
may be used with a contour interval of not more than 5 m.
The average slope of the site should be measured along a 100 m line in
any direction from any of the boundaries of the proposed development
site.
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2009
Table 15: Topography - Precautionary Measures

Category 1
Increase depth of sewer trenches

+ Provision of pumpstations
Category 2
Terracing for houses

+ Additional earthworks to roads
+ Stormwater control measures
Category 3

Category 4

Category 5

3.5.11 LOCATION OF DEVELOPMENT SITE

Verification category:
Location of development site in relation (km) to major centres in Province.
Only sites in access of 20 km from major centres will qualify for this
adjustment of the subsidy amount. The major centres for each province
will be identified by the MEC.
Adjustment of subsidy amount as percentage (%) for material costs in
major centres in Provinces.
The delivery of material for the prescribed 40m house with two trips with
a ten ton truck measured in one direction from the major centre to the
development site. Bigger houses will be in direct relation to this amount.
The MEC of each Province will determine a percentage with which
material costs for housing will be increased (between 1 and 5%) for each
major centre.
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2009
Table 16: Location of Development Site - Adjustment Measures

ADJUSTMENT MEASURES
Location of development
site
Two trips with ten ton truck to deliver material measured in one
direction
Adjustment for material

costs
MEC determine a percentage increase for material costs for each

major centre in the province
3.5.12 DESCRIPTION OF PHYSICAL DISABILITIES AND THE SPECIAL

HOUSING NEEDS
Category A:
Needs walking aids.
Category B:
Partial usage of wheel chair.
Category C:
Full-time usage of wheel chair.
Category D:
Partially/profoundly deaf.
Category E:
Partially/totally blind.
Category F:
Partially/total movement loss/paralysis in the upper

body limbs.
In order to ensure that housing units delivered through the National
Housing Scheme are adjusted to accommodate the special housing
needs of a disabled beneficiary (or a member of the beneficiary
household)
to
enable
them
to
live
independently,
certain
additions/alterations are necessary.

Table 17: Physically Disabled Beneficiaries Housing Needs - Precautionary
Measures
Category A
Installation of fittings to improve quality of life:

Access to house (12 m paving, and ramp at doorway)
+ Kick plates to doors
+ Hand rails and grab rails
+ Lever action taps
+ 1 m vinyl folding door in bathroom
+ Increase size of bathroom (reduce other rooms)
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2009
Category B

+ Lever action taps
Category C

+ Lever action taps
Category D
Visual doorbell indicator
Category E

+ Lever action taps
+ Slip resistant flooring
+ Colour contrast on doorways, stairs, corners of buildings and skirting on walls.
Category F

+ Lever action taps
+ Slip resistant flooring
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2009
3.5.13 SOUTHERN CAPE COASTAL CONDENSATION AREAS

Verification category:
Housing in the designated area is subject to severe condensation conditions.
Designated area is indicated on Figure 8.
Table 18: Southern Cape Coastal Condensation Areas - Precautionary Measures
Condensation
occurs on
walls and roof
Plaster and paint on all external walls

+ 6.4 mm gypsum plasterboard ceilings
+ 80 mm thick glass fibre insulation
The Southern Cape Coastal Condensation Area is depicted in Figure 8 and the
towns in the area are listed below:
Table 19: Towns lying on the Southern Cape Coastal Condensation Area boundary
1.
Albertinia
22.
Lindeshof
2.
Alicedale
23.
Louterwater
3.
Barrington
24.
Mamre
4.
Bathurst
25.
Malmesbury
5.
Blanco
26.
Paarl
6.
Bluecliff
27.
Port Alfred
7.
Ceres
28.
Prince Alfred
8.
Franschhoek
29.
Riebeeck-East
9.
Genadedal
30.
Riebeeck-West
10.
Gouda
31.
Riversdale
11.
Grahamstown
32.
Riviersonderend
12.
Greyton
33.
Ruiterbos
13.
Hamlet
34.
Stormsvlei
14.
Hankey
35.
Suurberg
15.
Heidelberg
36.
Suurbraak
16.
Herbertsdale
37.
Swellendam
17.
Joubertina
38.
Tulbach
18.
Kammiebos
39.
Uitenhage
19.
Katara
40.
Villiersdorp
20.
Kirkwood
41.
Wellington
21.
Langholm
42.
Wolseley
69
2009
Table 20: Towns lying within the Southern Cape Coastal Condensation Area
1.
Addo
58.
Loerie
2.
Alexandria
59.
Malgas
3.
Amsterdamhoek
60.
Melkbosrand
4.
Askraal
61.
Milnerton
5.
Aston Bay
62.
Mosselbay
6.
Atlantis
63.
Muizenberg
7.
Baardeskeerderbos
64.
Napier
8.
Bellevue
65.
Noanaha
9.
Bethelsdorp
66.
Onrus
10.
Bettys Bay
67.
Oukraal
11.
Bloubergstrand
68.
Oyster Bay
12.
Bluecliff
69.
Pacaltsdorp
13.
Boesmansriviermond
70.
Papiesvlei
14.
Boknesstrand
71.
Paradise Beach
15.
Botrivier
72.
Paterson
16.
Brandwag
73.
Pearly Beach
17.
Bredasdorp
74.
Philadephia
18.
Caledon
75.
Plettenberg Bay
19.
Cape Town
76.
Pniel
20.
Clarkson
77.
Port Beaufort
21.
Coega
78.
Port Elizabeth
22.
Coerney
79.
Protem
23.
Colchester
80.
Riethuiskraal
24.
Danas Bay
81.
Rietpoel
25.
Despatch
82.
Rondevlei
26.
Dro Vlakte
83.
Salem
27.
Elgin
84.
Scarborough
28.
Elim
85.
Sea View
29.
Fairfield
86.
Sedgefield
30.
Firgrove
87.
Simons Town
31.
Gans Bay
88.
Sinksaburg
32.
George
89.
Skipskop
33.
Gordons Bay
90.
Slangrivier
34.
Gouritsmond
91.
Somerset West
35.
Grabouw
92.
Southwell
36.
Groot Brakrivier
93.
Stanford
37.
Groot Jongensfonein
94.
Stellenbosch
38.
Hartenbos
95.
St Francis Bay
39.
Hawston
96.
Still Bay
70
40.
Hermanus
97.
| PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE) |

Stormsrivier
41.
Hermon
98.
Strand
42.
Herolds Bay
99.
Struis Bay
43.
Houtbay
100.
Sunland
44.
Humansdorp
101.
Swartskops
45.
Jeffreys Bay
102.
The Crags
46.
Kalbaskraal
103.
Vermaakllikheid
47.
Kareebouw
104.
Viljoenskroon
48.
Kariega
105.
Vlees Bay
49.
Kasuka
106.
Waenshuiskrans
50.
Kenton-on-Sea
107.
Wilderness
51.
Kleinmond
108.
Windmill
52.
Klipdale
109.
Witsand
53.
Knysna
110.
Wittedrift
54.
Kruisfontein
111.
Witteklip
55.
Kommetjie
112.
Woodsland
56.
Kuilsrivier
113.
Wydgel
57.
Kylemore
3.6
2009
VARIATION CALCULATOR
An electronic calculator has been developed for use when calculating the
adjustment of the subsidy amount. The formulas used in the calculator are based
on the extraordinary development conditions and the subsidy amount available
during a specific financial year. Following the adjustment of the subsidy amount,
an updated calculator is made available by the National Department of Human
Settlement.
To facilitate the evaluation of project applications, the Variation Manual is
supported by an automatic variation amount calculator. This calculator operates
through the software programme Microsoft Word Excel and is available from the
National Department of Human Settlement. The calculator will annually adjusted
by the Department in line with the building cost index.
It is important to note that although the calculator can be used to determine
variation amounts required for the adjustment of the project cost at project
application stages, the actual variation amount must be determined based on
professional assessment of the extraordinary development conditions and the
costing of the precautionary measures designed by the professionals.
71
2009
The figures that follow are available in electronic format from the Departmental website:
www.dhs.gov.za.
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79
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80
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81
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82
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83
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84
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85
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86
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87
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2009

Programmes
3 Variation Manual
Guidelines
89
2009
90
2009
EXTENDED PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME (EPWP) GUIDELINES
4.1 OBJECTIVE OF THE EPWP

The EPWP is linked to Governments programmes that are intended to address
unemployment and increase economic growth, to improve skills levels through
education and training and to improve the environment for industry to flourish. It is
envisaged that the EPWP will exist until these programmes have assisted in
reducing unemployment.
The EPWP:
a) aims to achieve a large impact in a short time;
b) will focus on construction, rehabilitation and maintenance activities which offer
the best opportunity for the use of unskilled labour. In particular, low-volume
roads, trenching, storm water and sidewalks have been identified as areas where
construction, rehabilitation and maintenance using labour-intensive methods, will
increase steadily over time; and
c) does not exclude other types of infrastructure and encourages all public bodies
to expand the use of labour-intensive methods to other types of infrastructure.
The EPWP is focused on unemployed, under-skilled and under-qualified persons
and aims to provide an opportunity to:
a) draw significant numbers of the unemployed into productive work to enable them
to earn an income within the first five (5) years of the EPWP;
b) provide unemployed people with education and skills;
c) ensure that participants in the EPWP are able to translate the experience by
either enabling them to set up their own businesses or, become employed; and
d) utilise public sector budgets to reduce and alleviate unemployment.
4.2 APPLICATION OF THE EPWP TO THE HOUSING SECTOR
The Housing Sector will be able to contribute directly to the Infrastructure Sectors
initiatives for job creation through increasing the labour intensity of appropriate
activities in the housing delivery process as undertaken by PDs and municipalities.
The EPWP in the Housing Sector will focus on the provision of services to the
stands through labour-intensive activities, where the nature of the work involves
trenching for civil engineering services and the construction of sidewalks, low
volume roads and storm water drainage systems.
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2009
In the Housing Sector there will be strong emphasis on efficiency, costeffectiveness and quality of end-products when labour-intensive construction
methods in civil works, under the EPWP, are introduced. A housing project must be
carried out using an appropriate mix of labour and machines
(Contractors will be allowed to use machines for construction activities where it is
not technically or economically feasible to use labour.)
All housing construction work will be carried out according to the normal quality
standards. Housing development is extensively linked to the National Home
Builders Registration Councils Warranty Scheme. Labour-intensive construction
does not imply a deviation from or, reduction of standards in terms of quality or
specification.
The Housing Sector is expected to apply the Guidelines for the Implementation of
Labour-Intensive Infrastructure Projects under the Expanded Public Works
Programme (www.epwp.gov.za) in all future housing projects, unless it can be
justified that elements of a housing project, due to site specific conditions, can be
excluded from being labour-intensive. These Guidelines were agreed upon by
SALGA, National Treasury and the Department of Public Works and provide:
a) the necessary tools to successfully prepare tender documentation for labourintensive projects;
b) sections which should be copied into the relevant parts of the contract
documentation for consulting engineers and contractors (The Guidelines
conform to the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of 1999). The
normal tender evaluation processes are followed under the Guidelines, and it is
not necessary to apply any special additional preferences for employment
creation);
c) for the incorporation of the necessary contents of the Code of Good Practice for
Special Public Works Programmes, which has been gazetted by the Department
of Labour. It further provides for special conditions of employment for EPWP
projects (for example, the workers are entitled to formal training, which will be
provided by training providers appointed by the Department of Labour); and
d) directives to develop the capacity of the construction industry to manage labourintensive projects and include an eligibility requirement for the appointment of
contractors and consulting engineers (In this respect, their key staff, involved in
the EPWP project, must undergo special National Qualification Frameworkaccredited training programmes in labour-intensive construction.)
The application of the Guidelines will apply to all housing projects and must be
made a condition applicable to all developers and implementing agents used by the
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2009
PDs for housing projects undertaken directly by the PD and will be applied to all
housing projects for which the design process commences after the beginning of
the 2004-2005 financial year.
By adopting and incorporating the EPWP Guidelines into its delivery process and
contracts for the delivery of services to housing, the Housing Sector will be able to
make significant contributions to the EPWP. Use of the EPWP Guidelines means
that the requirements are contractually cascaded down to housing agents i.e. the
developers, consultants and contractors. Municipalities, who are the main
developers for housing, are already required to use the Guidelines when providing
services funded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant or through the
Development Bank of South Africa loans. The adoption of the EPWP Guidelines by
the Housing Sector will align the sector to the national strategy for delivery of
services.
The use of the EPWP Guidelines will make it conditional to design and execute
housing projects, particularly the installation of services (which are typically done
using capital intensive methods) in a labour-intensive manner. Furthermore, if the
operations are organised and managed correctly by the personnel who have been
trained in labour-intensive construction, there should be no cause to extend the
project execution time/period.
While the use of the EPWP Guidelines should not in the long run increase the cost
per unit, in the short term it could have cost implications that could impact
negatively on the overall housing delivery. As contractors become more familiar with
managing labour intensive projects, this risk will decrease and it is expected that the
labour-intensive premium will become less significant or disappear altogether. It is
important that in the first years, this risk is managed effectively by the PDs.
The EPWP, in the Housing sector, will target the unemployed and marginalised by
identifying the:
i)
unemployed, able and willing to work;
ii)
largely unskilled;
iii)
people not receiving social grants;
iv)
the poor;
v)
women;
vi)
people living with disabilities; and
vii) the youth.
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2009
The contractor will be obliged to ensure that every effort is made such that, the
expenditure on the employment of temporary workers is in the following proportions:
i)
60% women;
ii)
20% youth (who are between the ages of 18 and 35); and
iii)
2% on persons with disabilities.
The Housing Sector should specifically target women (who bear the brunt of poverty
and unemployment) by providing them with training, work experience and an
income as stepping-stones to their participation in the mainstream economy.
The PDs, must, to ensure commonality, use the following definitions when
projecting the extent to which it is possible to implement labour-intensive contracts:
Table 21: Definitions for Projections
Job opportunity
One (1) job opportunity = paid work created for an individual on an EPWP
project for any period of time.
Person-years of
employment
One (1) person year = 230 days of work/training

(i.e. 365 days 104 weekend days 10 public holidays 21 annual leave
days) inclusive of paid sick leave.
For task-rated workers, tasks completed, should be used as a proxy for
40 hours of work, based on a task completed in a week.
Training days
One (1) training day = at least seven (7) hours of formal training.
Formal training is further categorized as literacy and numeracy, life
skills, vocational skills and business skills and includes the assessment of
beneficiaries.
For each category of training a distinction will be made between
accredited and non-accredited days.
Actual expenditure (as defined by National Treasury) on projects and
supporting infrastructure, including feasibility studies and research but,
excluding government administration costs.
Expenditure per job created = Total project cost job opportunities
created.
This must be reported with and without the cost of research and feasibility
studies, as they will inflate the expenditure per job created in the initial
period.
The proportion of beneficiaries who fall into the following categories must
be recorded:
i) women; ii) youth (i.e. 18-35 years) and iii) disabled.
The definitions contained in the Preferential Procurement Regulations of
2001 for these categories of beneficiaries will be utilized.
Project budget
Demographic
characteristics of
beneficiaries
4.3 FUNDING OF THE EXPANDED PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME

The EPWP involves reorienting line function budgets and conditional grants so that
government expenditure results in more work opportunities, particularly for unskilled
labour. EPWP projects will therefore be funded through the normal budgetary
process and through the budgets of line-function departments, provinces and
municipalities. As a Programme aimed at unemployed persons it must not displace
existing workers and contracts.
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2009
The Fund is not subject to conditionalities in terms of the EPWP. However, in

accordance with policy whereby all organs of the state need to contribute to the
EPWP, the Housing Sector will implement the EPWP.
The housing subsidy is an allocated amount against which the PDs are expected to
deliver housing units to match the allocation. Funding for housing is primarily from
Specific Purpose Allocations to Provinces as per Schedule 5 of the Distribution of
Revenue Act (DORA).
4.4 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
4.4.1 NATIONAL DEPARTMENT
Co-ordination of the Housing Sectors activities, within the EPWP, will be
carried out by the National Department. This will comprise the:
a)
provision of guidance and directives relevant to the implementation

agents of the EPWP; and
b)
consolidation of the required EPWP statistics from the PDs by using

the Housing Subsidy Systems Management Information System to
monitor and report on the Housing Sectors achievements to the
Department of Public Works.
In addition, the National Department will:

c)
hold quarterly Task Team meetings, in the first two years of

implementation of the EPWP to ensure that the EPWP principles are
clearly understood, adopted, implemented, monitored, evaluated
and, quarterly reported on; and
d)
submit quarterly reports to the Director-General on the EPWP

progress.
4.4.2 PROVINCIAL LEVEL

The PDs will ensure that:
a)
liaison will take place with regional committees in each of the

districts of the relevant province for a mentoring, training and
technical assistance strategy;
b)
national norms and standards and, effective monitoring and

evaluation are applied for auditing purposes;
c)
ongoing communication with delivery agencies is maintained;
d)
provincial partnerships are managed;

95
e)
2009
participation will take place in the EPWP Provincial Steering

Committee structures as per their Terms of Reference;
f)
project approval is aligned to maximise the inclusion of the EPWP;
g)
where
relevant,
the
necessary
learnership
programme
is
administered;
h)
project management will take place; maintain the necessary EPWP

record keeping and engage in quarterly inspections to labour
intensive housing projects; and
i)
the training and development of departmental personnel required to

meet the needs of the EPWP, will be put in place.
4.5 OPERATIONALISING THE EPWP

The PDs will operationalise the EPWP, by:
a) enforcing EPWP conditions onto all housing projects executed either internally
or, by agencies;
b) allocating the EPWP delivery responsibility to a senior official, with support
structures, that extend into the Regions within the Provinces;
c) mandating the responsible senior official to engage with all stakeholders for the
purpose of communicating the EPWP and effecting its implementation with
training sessions, workshops and engagement of external consultants;
d) establishing a base line of projected contributions to the EPWP in the next five
(5) years and achieving this contribution within the existing operating
arrangements;
e) identifying additional areas and programmes that could be included in the EPWP
and, time frames for doing so, should, where applicable and practicable, be
included in the individual PDs EPWP plans (In the case of top structures, for
instance, additional labour can be achieved with regard to doing site preparation
and foundations by hand);
f) effecting contractual changes to make it mandatory to use the EPWP Guidelines
when undertaking housing projects and thereby enforcing labour-intensive
construction on the consultants and contractors undertaking the provision of civil
engineering services to the sites under contract with developers and
implementing agents;
g) engaging with and contributing to Provincial Steering Committees established for
the EPWP purposes; and
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2009
h) engaging with and contributing to the National Departments initiatives and the
monitoring and evaluation requirements to manage the EPWP contribution in the
Housing Sector.
4.6 ENTERING INTO MEMORANDA OF UNDERSTANDING
In order to give effect to the EPWP, PDs are advised to enter into the following
Memoranda of Understanding:
a) Memorandum of Understanding between a Provincial Department and the
Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA): A Memorandum of
Understanding between the CETA and a PD must be concluded to cover the
scope of training, funding of training and the placement of a PDs EPWP
beneficiaries in line with the CETA incentives offered to levy-paying employer
bodies. It also needs to target trade skills suited to support housing delivery,
thereby ensuring a future labour force.
b) Memorandum of Understanding between a Provincial Department, the
National Department of Public Works and the CETA: A Memorandum of
Understanding between a PD, the National Department of Public Works and the
CETA must be entered into in relation to the implementation of the EPWP.
Specific Memorandums of Understanding regarding the EPWP learnerships that
were secured by the National Department of Public Works, will need to be
actively pursued to ensure that the Housing Sector develops labour-intensive
contractors capable of delivering in accordance with the EPWP guidelines.
4.7 TRAINING AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN THE EPWP
4.7.1 A BASIC OVERVIEW ON TRAINING AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
Training is regarded as a critical component of the EPWP and further
information is obtainable from the National Department of Public Works
website www.epwp.gov.za.
Every EPWP housing project must have a clear training programme in
place that, at a minimum, strives to:
a)
Ensure
programme
managers
are
aware
of
their
training
responsibilities;
b)
Ensure a minimum of two (2) days training for every 22 days worked;
c)
Ensure a minimum of the equivalent of 2% of the project budget is

allocated to funding a skills training programme. This funding may be
sourced from the project budget, the National Skills Fund or donors.
97
2009
It is recognised that training needs will be higher at the start of a

project and tail off as projects become more established;
d)
Ensure sustainable training through certification;
e)
Balance functional and entrepreneurship training;
f)
Balance formal training with structured work place learning;
g)
Equip workers with skills that can be used to secure other

employment opportunities; and
h)
Identify possible career paths available to workers exiting the EPWP.
4.7.2 BENEFICIARY DEVELOPMENT

The beneficiaries who will be employed in the EPWP are expected to
receive training as per the requirement of the Code of Good Practice for
Special Public Works Projects.
The training development framework must be focused, i.e. that
beneficiaries will have to focus on the skills that will be critical for the
various EPWP housing projects, namely, technical and basic life skills
that will lead to certified qualifications.
The training of the EPWP beneficiaries must be linked to potential exit
strategies in order to maximize the chances of success of the
beneficiaries at the end of their employment in the EPWP. There are a
number of possible exit strategies for EPWP beneficiaries, namely,
pursuing further skills programmes or learnerships, forming own
construction or maintenance companies or also a possibility of being
retained by the various employer bodies under normal employment
conditions.
With the above principles in mind, arrangements must be put in place
between the PD, the CETA, the Employment Skills Development Agency
of the Department of Labour, the National Department of Public Works
and a number of Employer Bodies regarding the manner in which training
and placement of EPWP beneficiaries will be handled.
The placement of EPWP beneficiaries to various employer bodies have
to be handled by the Employment Skills Development Lead Employers
(ESDLERs). This is a special purpose vehicle that was planned by the
Department of Labour to be responsible for the placement of
beneficiaries to various construction enterprises in order to gain further
experience
through on-the-job training
in the
chosen
fields of
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2009
qualification, say bricklaying, plastering, painting, and tiling, amongst

other things.
In the case where the ESDLERs is not able to assist with the placement,
the PD should establish an ad hoc committee that will also include the
Employer Bodies and Training Providers to specifically look at the
placement of EPWP beneficiaries with both public and private sector
employers.
The CETA has made a commitment regarding incentives that will be
offered to employer bodies, which are able to place EPWP beneficiaries
for a minimum period of six (6) months. The incentives will also be
offered to employer bodies that are currently contributing to the CETA
training levy as required by the Skills Development Act. The purpose of
the placement of beneficiaries will be to ensure that they receive practical
on-the-job training, while they undergo skills training or learnerships,
depending on the scope of work available and the duration of projects
they are involved in. The placement will also be subject to a learnership
agreement between the Employer, the CETA and the beneficiary (as a
learner).
4.7.3 PROVINCIAL DEPARTMENT
PDs are directly involved in the technical aspects of the EPWP delivery
and need to have technical staff, within the PDs, fully aware of labourintensive technologies. PDs should therefore ensure that:
a)
75% of all Professionally Registered Engineers, employed in the

PDs, undertake the NQF 7 qualification in Labour-intensive Training
before the end of the 2005/2006 financial year;
b)
50% of all Technical Staff with, a Higher Diploma, S3 or S4, civil

engineering qualification to undertake the NQF 5 Labour-intensive
Training before the end of the 2005/2006 financial year;
c)
a further 25% of the Civil Technical Staff undertake this training before
August 2005;
d)
25% of all registered Quantity Surveyors and Technician Quantity

Surveyors undertake the NQF 5 or 7 Labour-intensive Training
before the end of the 2005/2006 financial year; and
e)
that not less than two members of the Project Approval committee in
any PD attend the NQF 7 Labour-intensive Training before the end
of the 2004/2005 financial year.
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The Human Resource Unit and where applicable, the Capacity Building
Unit, in PDs, should be requested to manage, implement and monitor that
this training is achieved. The Department of Public Works will through,
the CETA and the Public Services SETA facilitate the funding to this
effect.
PDs are therefore required to:
a)
convene workshops with all their technical staff and the EPWP Unit
in the Department of Public Works to create an EPWP awareness;
and
b)
do a technical documentation appraisal to comply with the EPWP

Guidelines.
A Basic Overview on Labour-intensive Learnerships

The Department of Public Works has an existing emerging contractor
learnership programme that is open to all PDs who would like to develop
contractors to execute housing projects labour intensively. In this
programme, the PDs will have to allocate training projects to these
learner contractors so that they can complete the practical training
component of their learnership.
The initiative is to enable emerging contactors to be provided with the
necessary skills to become sustainable labour-intensive contractors.
A learnership is a route for learning and gaining a qualification and it
provides both structured experience in the workplace and institutional
learning with a training provider (www.epwp.gov.za).
The learnership, with a duration of approximately two (2) years, will
typically consist of about 35% in-class training and 65% practical on-site
training. The negotiated prices for the on-site training projects will be
based on prices suggested by the relevant PD which must then be
approved by the National Department of Public Works EPWP unit.
The National Department of Public Works and the CETA will enter into
partnerships with a PD for the implementation of these learnerships to
develop entrepreneur, business and technical skills. A PD will then sign a
Memorandum of Agreement with the National Department of Public
Works and the CETA and will have made funding available to provide
workplace experience.
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The CETA will then provide the trainer, the National Department of Public
Works, the mentor and a PD with the work place opportunities for the
Learner Contracting Company (the juristic entity formed by individuals
who have entered into Learnership Agreements as a team, comprising
one (1) contractor at NQF level 2 and two (2) site supervisors at NQF
level 4, which individuals are to receive training and independent project
experience) to get experience.
In addition to this, support structures have been put in place by the
National Department of Public Works, and include:
a)
access to financial services for the Learner Contracting Company to

be provided by ABSA; and
b)
community facilitation, to recruit workers, to be provided through the

Independent Development Trust (IDT).
A Memorandum of Agreement for the learnerships must be concluded

and will include, as a condition, the following:
a)
The requirement that a PD must make a payment to a contractor

within two (2) weeks of receiving certification for payment (The
number of learner contractors should be determined on the overall
budget and the amount of work that a PD would be able to allocate
to the contractors during the learnerships but, should also be in line
with the amount of work expected to be tendered in the future. After
completion of the learnerships, contractors will be expected to tender
for contracts independent and the number of contractors exiting
should be aligned with the overall amount of work they can tender
for);
b)
an open and transparent advertisement and selection process is

followed for the recruitment and selection of learners;
c)
Learner contractors will receive classroom and on-site training and

exit from the programme;
d)
qualifications, experience and a training credit record;
e)
graduate contractors will qualify for tendering for on-going labourintensive housing;
f)
projects issued by the housing sector; and
g)
contracts, with consulting engineers for a housing project, include

the following clause, as determined in the EPWP:
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the consulting engineer shall process and submit the

contractors approved payment certificates to the PD within
three (3) days of submittal by the contractor.
4.7.4 MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF THE EPWP
Monitoring and evaluation of the EPWP has been identified as an
important element in the implementation thereof and, will provide
information for PD-management to review progress, to identify problems,
to make adjustments where needed and to highlight problem areas to be
addressed
Information and reporting is also of central importance in terms of
monitoring the National Housing Programmes and ensuring that funds
are effectively and efficiently spend. Accordingly, the Housing Act, 1997
(Act No. 107 of 1997) requires that information is gathered and reporting
occurs. The following five different information systems are operating at
national level:
a)
Housing and Urbanisation Information System;
b)
National Housing Subsidy Data Base;
c)
Housing Subsidy System;
d)
Integrated Development Information System; and
e)
Geographic Information System.
The Housing Subsidy System produces a variety of reports and has been
tailored to provide additional reports for the EPWP, within the constraints
of data capturing.
A PD must:
i)
make it a condition of contract to submit a labour report in all

conventional civil engineering services contracts. Typically water,
sanitation, roads and storm water are undertaken with the standard
procurement model of employer consultant and contractor, where
this report can be implemented; and
ii)
on a quarterly basis (April-June; July-September; October-December

and January-March) report to the National Department, by utilising
the EPWP Module on the HSS, on
-
the pre-determined EPWP monitoring indicators;
updated five (5) year forecasts;

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link the submission of the EPWP labour report and make it

conditional as part of the monthly payment certificate submitted by
the contractor; and
iv)
only transfer payment to a developer on condition of the receipt of

the required data.
MONITORING INDICATORS
The following, pre-determined, EPWP monitoring indicators will be
included in the reporting service of the EPWP Module of the HSS:
Person-years of employment created:
NB : 1 Person year = 230 days of work/training
(i.e. 365 days 104 weekend days 10 public holidays 21 annual leave days)
inclusive of paid sick leave.
For task-rated workers, tasks completed should be used as a proxy for 40 hours of
work, based on a task completed in a week
Job opportunities
NB : 1 job opportunity = paid work created for an individual on an EPWP project for any period
of time.
Training days
NB : 1 training day = at least 7 hours of formal training.
Formal training is further categorised as: literacy & numeracy, life skills, vocational
skills and business skills and includes the assessment of beneficiaries.
For each category of training a distinction will be made between accredited and
non-accredited training days.
Project budget
NB : Project Budget = actual expenditure (as defined by National Treasury) on
projects and supporting infrastructure, including feasibility studies and research but
excluding government administration costs.
Expenditure per job created = total project cost divided by job opportunities created.
This must be reported with and without the cost of research and feasibility studies,
as they will inflate the expenditure per job created in the initial period.
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Demographic characteristics of beneficiaries

The proportion of beneficiaries who fall into the following categories must be
recorded:
- Youth (i.e. 18 35 years of age)
- Women
- Disabled
The definitions contained in the Preferential Procurement Regulations of
2001 for these categories of beneficiaries will be utilised.
4.7.5 FLOW OF MONITORING INFORMATION
The internal and external project managers, appointed by the PDs on
different housing projects will have to collect the required data at a project
level. The data must then be submitted to PDs on a monthly basis as part
of their reporting for consolidation into a housing sector report. The HSS
module (EPWP) has specifically been developed to facilitate this
consolidation.
The various provincial lead sector departments will in turn be expected to
consolidate their reports into a sector report and forward the same to the
coordinating department.
4.7.6 EVALUATION OF THE EPWP
PDs must subject the EPWP to both internal and external evaluations.
This could be in the form of qualitative in-depth evaluations or diagnostic
assessments carried out from time-to-time, with the aim of providing
policy review guidance, on a necessity basis, but at least annually, to the
National Department.
As a minimum, the following, two (2) techniques must be used in the
evaluation process and the impact of the EPWP on the Housing Sector:
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Table 22 : Evaluation/Impact Techniques

Technique
Implementation
Areas Measured
Timeframes
Cross-sectional
surveys
Surveys of contractors/
implementing agents,
beneficiaries,
communities & PD
Profile of beneficiaries
& their households;
impact of income
transfers; impact of
assets created;
relevance & quality of
training; role of
contractor (targeting,
training, etc);
community perceptions
of the benefit of the
project; efficiency of
design &
implementation
Years 1-5, surveys to

be conducted at the
end of the project
cycle
Assessment of
quality of assets
and services
Evaluation of the quality

of infrastructure and
services against
accepted housing norms
& standards & National
Home Builders
Registration Council
prescripts
All forms of
infrastructure and
services
To be undertaken
annually
4.7.7 COMMUNICATION OF THE EPWP

A PD must ensure that:
a)
a staff induction strategy be developed to ensure that all levels are

adequately equipped to run with the EPWP. PDs will be responsible
for managing the EPWP and therefore need to be aware of the
policy framework and guidelines as well as their responsibilities;
b)
service delivery agents who will, in most cases, be the employer and
be:
i)
responsible for recruitment and existing beneficiaries, be

informed about the EPWP, their responsibilities, the norms and
standards governing the potential work opportunities and the
conditions of funds provided by the Department of Public
Works; and
ii)
that a generic EPWP induction strategy be implemented that,

will communicate with potential beneficiaries to ensure that
they are aware of the work opportunities offered by the EPWP
and, that they all have equal access to these job opportunities.
Potential beneficiaries need to know what is being offered, how
to apply, the assessment criteria, the responsibilities (norms
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and standards) of each party, the duration of the opportunity

and the possible exit opportunities.
4.7.8 REPORTING COMPLIANCE
A PD must comply with the following minimum reporting structure:a)
by utilising the EPWP Module on the HSS, quarterly reports to be

dispatched to the National Department, not later than the seventh
working day of the following month, for the quarters, beginning -
b)
i)
March
ii)
June
iii)
September
iv)
December;
quarterly, consolidated performance reports compared to the EPWP

baseline five (5) year forecasts; and
c)
quarterly
audit
trail
reports
reflecting
transfer
payments
to
contractors.
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HOUSING SUBSIDY SYSTEMS

HOUSING INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
Legislative provisions
Section 6 of the Housing Act, 1997 (Act No 107 of 1997) obliges the DirectorGeneral of the National Department to establish and maintain a national housing
data bank and a national housing information system.
To give effect to this mandate, the National Department has developed the following
systems:
The National Housing Subsidy Database (NHSDB)
NHSDB represents the official data bank of all the beneficiaries who have received
housing assistance from the Government. The data reflect beneficiaries of all the
past housing assistance schemes as well as beneficiaries of the Housing Subsidy
Scheme and new National Housing Programmes that were implemented since 15
March 1994.
Main Functions
The NHSDB fulfills two main functions. It:
a)
serves as the data bank of all housing subsidy beneficiaries;
b)
assists with the evaluation and approval of housing subsidy

applications by providing a search facility against the following
databases:
i) Population Register - to verify citizenship;
ii) Deeds Register - to verify property ownership status and
history; and
iii) NHSDB - searches against the existing records to verify state
housing assistance access status.
Mandatory use
The National Department is obliged to:
a)
Ensure that approved subsidies on the HSS are uploaded on the

NHSDB; and
b)
Provide and conduct a search process against the databases

indicated above to ensure that all subsidy applications can be
evaluated against the search results.
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The Housing Subsidy System (HSS)

The HSS has been developed and is maintained mainly as an operational and
administrative tool for the administration of the National Housing Programmes. In
summary the HSS is used for:
a)
Registering and administration of housing projects approved by the

MEC;
b)
Capturing and management of applications to access a housing

subsidy;
c)
Submitting applications captured for searches against the Population

Register, the Deeds Register, the UIF dataset, the PERSAL dataset
and the National Housing Subsidy Database; and
d)
Processing and management of project progression payments.
In addition, the HSS also facilitates the:

e)
Capturing of applications against approved housing projects;
f)
Approval of applicants to receive a housing subsidy based on the

qualification criteria of the various housing programmes;
g)
Management of approved housing projects based on the rules and

requirements of the various housing programmes;
h)
Updating
and
maintaining
delivery
information
to
ensure
measurement of expenditure against stated delivery;

i)
Tracking progress based on the contract details as approved by the

MEC;
j)
Management of payments within policy;
k)
Management of contract and individual subsidy approval;
l)
Processing of claims against set milestones based on contract

specifications; and
m) Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of approved housing

projects.
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Mandatory use
The mandatory use of the HSS is for the capturing and management of subsidy
applications and the management of approved housing development projects as
prescribed by the various National Housing Programmes.
In addition to the main functions of the HSS, the system also provides the following
additional functions/services:
The HSS Planning Module
The planning module provides the mechanism for:
a)
The population of provincial multi-year strategic plans as required by

Treasury;
b)
National Treasury performance reporting; and
c)
Expenditure and performance indicators as indicated in the provincial

business plans.
The HSS Budget Module

This is a budgetary system to enable the project management unit and finance
department of the PD to manage expenditure and cash flow processes during the
lifecycle of the project. It also provides for the periodic review of provincial housing
budgets by subsidy instrument, provincial priorities, programmes and projects.
The Budget Module provides for the following:
a)
Setup and review of budget;
b)
Cash flow management;
c)
Monitoring expenditure vs. budget;
d)
Specifying budget cycles;
e)
Review current status of budget allocations;
f)
Specifying income sources and estimates; and
g)
Reporting.
The HSS BAS Interface

The HSS-BAS Interface is used as an electronic payments interface for provinces
that use both HSS and BAS.
The interfaces provides for the electronic transfer of approved payment from HSS to
BAS to reduce the potential for human error. All payments in terms of the Housing
Fund must be done via the HSS BAS Interface.
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The HSS Subsidy Management

This module provides for the:
a)
Tracking of individual applications submitted for approval to receive a

housing subsidy;
b)
Monitoring the status of an applicant from application until delivering

of product;
c)
Initiation of searches against various databases;
d)
Determination of a subsidy amount for each applicant according to

the qualifying criteria; and
e)
Tracking of financial dependants that form part of a specific

applicants household.
It manages the following processes:

a)
Registration of applications in a batch format;
b)
Capturing of application details per applicant;
c)
Execute searches against NHSDB, Population Register and Deeds

databases to prevent double subsidies;
d)
Execute searches against the UIF and PERSAL datasets to verify

income declared by applicant;
e)
Editing of application details;
f)
Verification of application details; and
g)
Approval of subsidy applications.
HSS Project and Contract Management

This module provides for the capturing of:
a)
Capturing of project agreement details;
b)
Capturing of project details pertaining to the payment agreements,

number of units, size of units, top structure prices, additional
subsidies etc;
c)
Facilitating of project progress payment milestones according to

policy requirements and updating thereof to track status of project;
and
d)
Monitoring progression of projects against milestones.

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It provides for the capturing of:

a)
project expenditure milestones against the approved budget of a

project and provides a mechanism to capture additional funding
requirements;
b)
project applications received and setting of statuses including

documents required at various stages, until project approval;
c)
information to enable evaluation of a housing project against

predetermined criteria;
d)
interest rates applicable for an approved housing project;
e)
information related to companies responsible for infrastructure

provisioning;
f)
the geographic location of an approved housing project;
g)
expenditure priorities as approved by MINMEC;
h)
previous state expenditure towards the sites in an approved housing

project;
i)
product details (Site size, site price, Top Structure Size, Top Structure
Price);
j)
information related to companies constituting the professional team

including profile of company associated with an approved housing
project;
k)
the number of subsidies planned per subsidy bracket;
l)
progress inspection information;
m) amounts to be paid at fixed milestones including tranche payments;

n)
information related to the status of township establishment;
o)
and the updating of contract and addendum information; and
p)
Tranche Payment Redemption Milestones.
The HSS Claims Management

This module provides for:
a)
Payment of project funding against approved beneficiaries and

companies, payment milestones and contracts;
b)
Cumulative payment monitoring and recording and reporting of

expenditure incorrectly administered;
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c)
Reconciliation of individual subsidies paid to banks; and
d)
Capturing of General Ledger entries.
2009
With regard to funding administration the HSS facilitates the following processes:
a)
Capturing of claims against fixed project milestones based on contractual

agreements;
b)
Authorisation of claims against fixed milestones and verifying

whether the required documentation was submitted;
c)
Reconciliation of advance payments;
d)
Reconciliation of payments on HSS based on information from BAS;

and
e)
The issuing of various reports required for payment approval.
The HSS Online

This module facilitates the following:
a)
The capturing of Subsidy Applications;
b)
The capturing of payment Claims by saving it to a local database

and upload it in batches at a later stage;
c)
Project Progress Management by means of Online capturing of

project progress information;
d)
Status Reports for management and users to enhance operational

efficiency and monitoring housing delivery related to:
i.
ABC Statistical Information
ii. Application Status

iii. Audit
iv. Budget
v. Financial Reports
vi. Indicators
vii. Project Reports
viii. Project Status
e)
Managing of daily search process
f)
Entry point to HSS BAS Interface.

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MULTI YEAR PLANNING FOR HUMAN SETTLEMENTS DEVELOPMENT
6.1 OVERVIEW
The Comprehensive Plan for the Creation of Sustainable Human Settlements
(Comprehensive Plan) requires proper planning for housing development that
follows a coordinated and funding aligned approach. Section 7(2)(g) of the Housing
Act, 1997 (Act No 107 of 1997) also requires provinces to compile multi-year
housing development plans. This Act further requires thatevery municipality must, as part of the municipalitys process of
integrated development planning, take all reasonable and necessary
steps within the framework of national and provincial housing legislation
and policy to initiate plan, coordinate, facilitate, promote and enable
appropriate housing development in its area of jurisdiction.
The Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (PFMA)
(Act No 1 of 1999) also
requires provinces to compile and submit five year Strategic Plans, Three year
Annual Plans and yearly Operational Plans. Operational Plans require provinces to
report quarterly on project progress in respect of the current financial year.
The prescribed National Treasury Strategic Planning document was adjusted and
merged with the requirements of the provincial multi year housing development
plans to provide for a single and coordinated planning process.
This planning
dispensation is aimed at assisting provincial departments to plan in a structured

manner.
Planning templates based on the Comprehensive Plan on National Housing
Programmes were developed as an aide for provinces to achieve scientific multi
year plans.
These templates were designed for each of the National Housing
Programmes and have been aligned with the provisions of the prevailing Division of
Revenue Act, (DORA), which provides for monthly reporting on each project that
was allocated funding and covers the first year of each MTEF period.
6.2 THE APPLICATION OF THE PROCESS OF COMPILING THE TREASURY
STRATEGIC PLAN
The compilation of the Treasury Strategic Plan entails a scientific approach to
enable provinces achieve actual delivery within a specific period. The following key
principles are applicable:
(a) The planning process at provincial level entails a bottom up approach that
commences at municipal level, where Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) form
the basis for provincial strategic plans and such provincial plans will inform the
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national plan. The foundation for planning processes is thus approved IDPs with
clear housing dimensions. Housing Chapters of the IDPs were developed to
assist with the planning of housing development projects during the compilation
of the IDPs.
Planning for housing development projects must be based on the project life
cycle, creating the ability to deliver each aspect of the project over the life cycle
of each project to ensure that the allocation and expenditure of funding is
synchronised.
(b) The required provincial planning entails the following:
- A five year strategic plan, linked to the electoral cycle which commenced
in January 2005. This plan remains valid and in place until 2010.
- An Annual Plan (MTEF period) that deals with programme and project
implementation over the MTEF period. This plan is updated annually and
also adjust the strategic five year plan.
- Annual (operational) plans that covers the current financial year and upon
which quarterly progress reports are required by National Treasury.
(c) The provincial plans as outlined above must cater for:
- The National Housing Programmes;
- Approved IDPs/Housing Chapter of the IDPs;
- Agreed and coordinated National, Provincial and Municipal priorities for
housing development.
(d) The planning process at provincial level should be guided by section 16 the
Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act, 2005 (Act No 13 of 2005), which
provides for the establishment of a Premiers Intergovernmental Forum to
promote and facilitate intergovernmental relations between the province and
local governments in each province. Section 18 of this Act provides that this
Forum is a consultative forum to discuss and consult on matters of mutual
interest including inter alia
(vii) the co-ordination of provincial and municipal development planning
to facilitate coherent planning in the province as a whole.
The Premiers Intergovernmental Forum should be used to determine housing
development planning priorities and agreements on the annual allocation of
MTEF Housing funding provided by National Government for the implementation
of the National Housing Programmes. The agreements reached by the Forum
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should constitute confirmed funding reservations.
2009
Once agreements are
achieved, the municipality will be in a position to confirm planning priorities with

the communities in its area of jurisdiction and conclude social contracts with
communities.
(e) The following flowchart illustrates the linkages between the provincial and
municipal planning cycle in terms of housing development.
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MONITORING, EVALUATION AND IMPACT ASSESSMENT STRATEGY FOR

THE HOUSING SECTOR
7.1 THE MANDATE FOR MONITORING, EVALUATION AND IMPACT ASSESSMENT

(MEIA) IN THE HOUSING SECTOR
The mandate for MEIA in the housing sector emanates largely from the following
prescripts:
a. The Housing Act ,1997 (Act 107 of 1997)
i.
Section 3 (1) of the Act states:

The National Government acting through the Minister must,
after
consultation
with
every
MEC
and
the
National
organisation representing municipalities, as contemplated in

Section 163 (a) of the Constitution, establish and facilitate a
sustainable, national housing development process.
ii. Section 3 (2) (c) of the Act then states that:
for the purposes of Subsection (1) the Minister must... , inter
alia :
Monitor the performance of the National Government and, in
cooperation with every MEC, the performance of provincial and
local governments against housing delivery goals and
budgetary goals.
iii. Section 4 (i) states that the Minister may:
evaluate the performance of the housing sector against set
goals and equitableness and effectiveness requirements.
It is therefore apparent that the Housing Act, 1997 (Act 107 of 1997), as the
single most important piece of legislation underpinning housing delivery, places
the responsibility on the Minister, through the three spheres of Government, to
produce
meaningful,
qualitative
and
quantitative
information
on
the
implementation, progress, outcomes and impact of national housing policies and

programmes, as well as the housing sector as a whole.
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b. The Government-Wide Monitoring and Evaluation System.

During 2004, the Governance and Administration Cluster was mandated, as a
result of the emphasis placed on the importance of monitoring, evaluation and
reporting in Government by the President in his State of the Nation Address, to
design and implement a Government-Wide Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting
Framework.
The first step in realising this objective was the development of a GovernmentWide Monitoring and Evaluation System (GWM&E System). The rationale for
the GWM&E System was to provide decision-makers, in all Government
agencies, departments and local governments with easy access to regular and
reliable information that would contribute towards the management of their own
processes by revealing which of their practices and strategies worked well and
which needed to be changed or improved.
It was noted that while each Department has its own particular areas of concern
and that each Department will require its own unique framework for its particular
analytical purposes. However, generic information reporting, that straddles the
entire spectrum of Government, will be required, eg. spending and budgetry
information required by National Treasury or the performance of departments
with regard to the implementation of Governments Programme of Action. The
GWM&E System is expected to cater for this requirement, and it is envisaged
that the information required would be detailed and accurate and be generated
by regular, integrated management processes rather than through separate
procedures. Furthermore, it is anticipated that the information, eg. on progress
with the implementation of programmes would not only focus on the inputs,
outputs and outcomes but will also periodically assess the impact of the strategic
objectives.
The objectives of this GWM&E System are to:
i.
contribute towards improved governance by enhancing the collection,

collation, analysis, dissemination and application of information on the
progress and impact of policies, programmes and projects in order to
ensure transparency and accountability; and
ii.
promote service delivery improvement and compliance, in line with statutory

and other requirements.
The GWM&E System aims to:

i.
deliver useful information and analysis;
ii.
improve monitoring and evaluation practices and capacity;

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iii.
promote the emergence of a learning culture in the public sector; and
iv.
contribute to better public management in South Africa.
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The GWM&E System will focus on:

i.
essential elements of results-based monitoring and evaluation;
ii.
a strengthened role of the monitoring function within the three spheres of

Government;
iii.
the presentation of a more integrated approach to the monitoring and

evaluation in Government;
iv.
the introduction of simplified, streamlined and harmonized procedures inline Governments results-orientated framework for monitoring and
evaluation;
v.
The provision of guidance on the assessment of results within the context of

Governments Programme of Action and its priorities; and
vi.
stressing that monitoring and evaluation are important management

functions aimed at ensuring quality of interventions and supporting decisionmaking, accountability, learning and capacity development.
The GWM&E System is expected to provide:

i.
accurate and reliable information on progress in the implementation of

Government and other public sector programmes;
ii.
information on the outcomes and impact achieved by Government and

other public bodies; and
iii.
continuously improved quality of monitoring and evaluation practice in

Government and public bodies.
Each Department or public body will be required to provide information to the

GWM&E System on:
i.
achievement of targets in terms of performance indicators included in their

strategic plans;
ii.
progress made in relation to Governments Programme of Action; and
iii.
impact studies for each programme undertaken at least every five years.
In addition, each Department or public body will need to determine procedures

and processes appropriate to their own operations to be able to fulfill this
mandate.
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2009
The Presidency has provided guidelines to support the improvement of the

collection and the collation, analysis, dissemination and application of information
on the progress and impact of programmes in order to ensure transparency and
accountability and to promote service delivery improvement and compliance with
statutory and other requirements, as well as a learning culture in the public
sector. (Proposal and Implementation Plan for a Government-Wide Monitoring
and Evaluation System, September 2005). The housing sector is required to
provide the GWM&E System with accurate and reliable information on the
performance of Governments programmes and the effectiveness and efficiency
of service delivery in the sector. In order to adhere to this responsibility,
processes and procedures are being put into place to measure, monitor and
evaluate performance and service delivery. The ND is now redirecting its efforts
to ensure that its approach to MEIA encompasses the tenets of the GWM&E
System and the ND will align the housing sector monitoring and evaluation
processes to the GWM&E Plan.
c. The Comprehensive Plan for the Development of Sustainable Human
Settlements (the Comprehensive Plan)
The Comprehensive Plan as approved by Cabinet, also in 2004, makes
provision for interventions to be undertaken to enhance data collection,
management
information,
monitoring
and
evaluation
and
performance
measurement. In this regard, specific reference is made to the need to provide

more confidence in the quality of Housing Subsidy and Expenditure Data and
therefore the need for a new strategy to improve data input and interpretation.
The Comprehensive Plan mandates the ND to ensure that :
-
current systems of both the ND and provinces are brought up to date and
confirmed; and
new systems and procedures are instituted to enhance the existing

management information systems of the ND, provinces and municipalities.
Provision is also made for Performance Monitoring and the ND has been
committed to develop a comprehensive housing sector monitoring, information
and reporting system based on key performance indicators. It is noted that this
system must be capable of regular, structured reporting on the performance
(quantitative as well as qualitative) of the various housing programmes and
housing institutions. This information should be used to support policy
development and enhancements and should form the basis for developing
reports to institutions established in terms of Chapter 9 of the Constitution (e.g.
Human Rights Commission, Office for Women etc.), Parliament and international
agencies such as UN Habitat.
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2009
Furthermore, the various Business Plans highlight the need to monitor and
evaluate each of the housing programmes to ensure delivery as intended and to
learn lessons that will enhance policy, programmes and delivery. Implicit in the
Comprehensive Plan, also, is a need for a Monitoring and Evaluation Policy which
will assist the ND determine, inter alia, whether and how the housing policies and
programmes are working as intended and what needs to be done to enhance the
policies and programmes, and in this way assist in enhancing housing delivery.
d. State of the Nation Address
In his State of the Nation Address on 9 February 2007, the State President said
that:
many of the weaknesses in improving services to the population derive in
part from inadequate capacity and systems to monitor implementation. As
such, in the period leading up to 2009, the issue of the organization and
capacity of the state will remain high on our agenda.
In addition he added, inter alia, that there was a need to:
develop a proper database of households living in poverty, monitor
progress in these households as the programmes take effect in
graduating them out of poverty.
7.2 APPLICATION OF MEIA
7.2.1 OPERATIONALISING THE MANDATES
It is evident therefore that the NDs thrust for a very highly structured,
effective and efficient MEIA system is predicated on the emphasis placed
on MEIA by the State President, Government in general and the housing
sector, in particular. In order to meet the requirements of the combined
mandates therefore, the ND must provide a system that will monitor and
evaluate every aspect of the States housing developmental agenda and
in this way pave the way for enhanced policies, programmes, service
delivery and greater beneficiary satisfaction.
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2009
7.2.2 THE NATIONAL DEPARTMENTs RESPONSE TO FACILITATE THE

ACHIEVEMENT OF THE MANDATES
7.2.2.1 ENHANCED ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
The ND has made provision in its new organisational structure for a
Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. The purpose of this unit is to coordinate
the monitoring, evaluating and reporting on the National Housing Policies
and Programmes, the adherence to project and programme planning, the
implementation and delivery processes and the assessment of the impact
of Governments programmes in all provinces.
Within the framework of the GWM&E System, the Monitoring and
Evaluation Unit will be responsible for:
i.
monitoring and evaluating the planning, implementation and

performance of national housing policies and programmes against
set targets and approved guidelines and the tracking of construction
processes;
ii.
assessing the impact of national housing policies and programmes

and developing and coordinating the implementation of an evaluation
strategy;
iii.
monitoring occupancy audits; and
iv.
managing and coordinating the implementation and maintenance of

the Monitoring and Evaluation system.
In addition, the Unit will, within the ambit of the Government-Wide

Monitoring and Evaluation Plan undertake to :
i.
align the housing sector monitoring and evaluation processes to the

Government-Wide Monitoring and Evaluation System;
ii.
prepare a Monitoring and Evaluation Policy for the Housing Sector;
iii.
finalise the Monitoring, Evaluation and Impact Assessment (MEIA)

Framework for the Housing Sector and the Indicator Protocol;
iv.
prepare the MEIA Implementation Plan for the roll out of the MEIA
Framework;
v.
finalise the MEIA application systems;
vi.
prepare a Monitoring and Evaluation Policy and Implementation

Guidelines for Service Delivery in the Housing Sector; and
vii. develop processes to capacitate national and provincial officials.

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2009
7.3 OPERATIONAL MATTERS

7.3.1 COLLABORATION
In an attempt to perform the functions outlined above, the Unit will work in
close collaboration with various line functionaries within the Department,
the PDs and municipalities. In addition, the Unit will focus on the products
delivered with the funding made available through the conditional grant.
Non-financial information will be obtained through the Housing Information
Systems of the Sector Information Services Unit.
7.3.2 INITIATIVES
In order to meet the requirements of the mandate set out in Section 2.2
above, the Monitoring and Evaluation Unit will undertake the following
initiatives to establish a Comprehensive Monitoring and Evaluation
Strategy (CMES):
i.
A Monitoring and Evaluation Policy for the Housing Sector
ii.
The Monitoring, Evaluation and Impact Assessment Framework for

the Housing Sector and the Indicator Protocol
iii.
Monitoring and Evaluation System (MEIA System)
iv.
Implementation Plan
v.
Policy and Implementation Guidelines for Service Delivery in the

Housing Sector
vi.
Capacitation of national and provincial officials
7.3.3 A MONITORING AND EVALUATION POLICY FOR THE HOUSING

SECTOR
The Monitoring and Evaluation Policy for the Housing Sector (M & E
Policy) will set the basis for the development and implementation of the
MEIA system. The purpose of this policy will be:
i.
To monitor and evaluate results and impacts of the Comprehensive

Plan Strategies
ii.
To provide a basis for decision-making on amendments and

improvements
of
policies,
strategies,
program
management,
procedures, and projects

iii.
To promote accountability for resource use against objectives by

national and provincial departments and municipalities; and
129
iv.
2009
To ensure documentation of feedback and the dissemination of

results and lessons learned.
The M & E Policy will form the basis for all monitoring, evaluation and
impact assessment studies. It will, inter alia, outline the broad activities,
processes and procedures to be carried out in order to allow the Housing
Sector to report on meaningful qualitative and quantitative information on
the implementation, progress, outcome and impact of all national housing
policies and programmes. It will also focus on outlining the methodology
to be adhered to when conducting monitoring and evaluation and
determine what data should be regulated to maintain confidentiality
without compromising transparency. In addition, it will define the roles
and the responsibilities of the different stakeholders, the consultative
processes to be entered into etc.
7.3.4 THE MONITORING, EVALUATION AND IMPACT ASSESSMENT
FRAMEWORK FOR THE HOUSING SECTOR AND THE INDICATOR
PROTOCOL
The Monitoring, Evaluation and Impact Assessment Framework (M & E
Framework) will be a comprehensive planning document for all
monitoring and evaluation activities, (which) documents the key M & E
questions to be addressed, what indicators are collected, how, how often,
from where and why they will be collected; baselines, targets and
assumptions; how they are going to be analysed or interpreted, and how
or how often reports will be developed and distributed on these
indicators.
The Indicator Protocol will measure the various levels of results in the
housing sector based on the requirements of the Comprehensive Plan.
The:
a. Goal of the M & E Framework
The goal of the M & E Framework would be to track the progress of the
housing sector in the development of sustainable human settlements, by
checking
and
assessing
whether
programme
results
meet
the
predetermined objectives and whether the interventions are yielding the

required results.
130
2009
b. Aims of the M & E Framework

The M & E Framework will aim to:
i.
define a list of core indicators that will allow for the tracking of
progress in the critical areas of the development of sustainable
human settlements
ii.
outline a data collection management strategy that will enable

the measurement of the core indicators;
iii.
provide a standardized tool for the monitoring and evaluation

of human settlement development interventions;
iv.
establish clear data flow channels between the different

stakeholders;
v.
develop mechanisms to ensure correct dissemination of all

critical
information
amongst
stakeholders,
implementing
agencies, beneficiaries and the general public;

vi.
clearly describe the role of each of the stakeholders in the

monitoring and evaluation of national housing programmes;
vii.
develop a plan for strengthening the capacity of all partners

involved in the monitoring and evaluation of the national
housing programmes.
c. Formulation of the Indicators

The M & E Framework will contain a set of indicators which were
developed to enable the sector to measure the various results of
thereof national housing policies, programmes and interventions.
Each indicator is linked to a specific level of result, namely input,
output, outcome and impact level.
The indicators indicated in the
M & E Framework, represents the appropriate indicators to measure

the relevant levels of results in a practical, reliable, direct and
adequate manner. The Indicator Protocol document contains detailed
information on each indicator, namely definition, unit of measure,
measurement tool, data source, baseline, target, etc.
d. Achievement of the results
Results will be achieved by utilising the logic model, ie. a
programme design, management and evaluation tool that describes
the main elements being tested and shows how these elements
work together to reach a particular goal. The elements comprise
131
inputs,
activities,
outputs,
outcomes
and
impacts
and
2009
the
relationship of these elements is set out logically in the Goal and

Objective Map. A draft Goal and Objective Map has already been
developed
after
intensive
consultation
processes
with
representatives from the ND and the PDs and is underpinned by

the logic model.
132
2009
DWEA
DCGTA
DM
Treasury
133
2009
7.3.5 MONITORING AND EVALUATION SYSTEM (MEIA SYSTEM)

The application of MEIA is underpinned by an information system in
terms of which the data required is accumulated in a warehouse
environment,
namely
the
Housing
and
Urbanisation
Information
Management System (HUIMS). The data required is obtained both

electronically, for example the Housing Subsidy System (HSS), which is
used for the administration of housing projects and subsidies, and
manually from sources that are not supported by operational systems.
Under ideal circumstances, management reporting and decision support
can be made directly from operational systems environments, but in
practice this is not always possible because, e.g the need for the
validation of data before it is formally reported and released. To allow for
this, a MEIA Warehouse is to be established, within HUIMS that is
consistent with the indicator definitions and the strategic objectives of the
organisation.
HUIMS will therefore serve as a ready dissemination
channel and content management portal for the indicator reporting

function as existing presentation methods (charts, tables, maps,
dashboards) can be used or slightly adjusted to present indicator detail
views and summaries. In addition, user communities, user registration,
validation, and authentication methods already exist and can be used in
its current form.
The proposed system would also be able to identify trigger points, which
reflect exceptional implementation success (e.g. inputs delivered ahead
of schedule, efficient service delivery or exceptional staff performance).
Such information does not only provide positive reinforcement but begins
to set up benchmarks for best practice.
The idea is for all stakeholders, including Provincial Departments, other
National Departments such as the Presidents Office and National
Treasury, to have direct electronic access to the MEAI System and will be
able to draw updated reports from the system. The MEIA System will be
maintained at the ND as part of HUIMS.
7.3.6 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
As soon as the Monitoring and Evaluation Policy and Framework
documents have been approved by the relevant management structures,
implementation plans will be developed to cater for the implementation of
the M & E Policy and Framework as well as the roll-out of the MEIA
System.
134
2009
7.3.7 CAPACITATION OF NATIONAL AND PROVINCIAL OFFICIALS

One of the critical components of the implementation process is the
building of the capacity of national and provincial officials to implement
the CM&ES.
The capacity-building process will involve formal and
structured working sessions and skills transfer as and when individual

needs are identified.
To maximise effectiveness of the capacitation of both national and
provincial officials, it is envisaged that training on monitoring and
evaluation will be competency based and linked with work place
performance.
In addition, two or more levels of an organisation, for
example, the senior, middle and lower management will be targeted.

This will be done to ensure that managers ensure that the skills and
knowledge acquired by the officials is supported and applied within the
workplace.
As a part of the workforce development (formal learning), a protocol
document covering the proposed indicators for MEIA was developed.
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2009
136

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TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

PART A: INTRODUCTION TO THE NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES. .....11

1.1 OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................. 11

PART B: TECHNICAL PROVISIONS ..................................................................... 21

2.1 NATIONAL NORMS AND STANDARDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

NORMS AND STANDARDS IN RESPECT OF MUNICIPAL

THE SITE PREPARATION ............................................................ 27

FLOOR SLAB ................................................................................ 29

LIGHTING AND VENTILATION..................................................... 32

ENVIRONMENTALLY EFFICIENT HOUSING .............................. 34

2.1.8 EXCEPTIONS IN THE APPLICATION OF THE NORMS AND

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

2.4 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS.............................................................................. 44

VARIATION MANUAL ............................................................................................ 51

3.1 VARIATION MANUAL (ADJUSTMENT OF THE HOUSING SUBSIDY

MINING SUBSIDENCE ............................................................................... 63

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

SEISMIC ACTIVITY .................................................................................... 64

3.5.10 TOPOGRAPHY OF THE SITE ..................................................................... 65

VARIATION CALCULATOR ........................................................................ 71

EXTENDED PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME

4.1 OBJECTIVE OF THE EPWP................................................................................... 91

HOUSING SUBSIDY SYSTEMS .......................................................................... 109

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

MULTI YEAR PLANNING FOR HUMAN SETTLEMENTS

6.1 OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................... 117

MONITORING, EVALUATION AND IMPACT ASSESSMENT

7.1 THE MANDATE FOR MONITORING, EVALUATION AND IMPACT

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

Department of Water and Environmental Affairs

Housing Subsidy System

Human Settlement Redevelopment Programme Fund

Integrated Development Plan

Integrated Residential Development Programme

Member of Executive Council

Medium Term Expenditure Framework

National Department of Human Settlements

National Home Builders Registration Council

Provincial Department responsible for human settlement

Value Added Tax

National Building Regulations

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

1 Part A: Introduction to the National Housing

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

TECHNICAL AND GENERAL GUIDELINES - SPECIFIED NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES

PART 3 (OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING CODE)

PART A: INTRODUCTION TO THE NATIONAL HOUSING PROGRAMMES