‘Happy letter’ causes sadness for City residents
27 February 2026
The City’s Human Settlements Directorate urges residents to be on alert for scams targeting housing project beneficiaries. The City has learned of a group of people who are giving residents a ‘happy letter’ with details of housing opportunities. These letters are not real, the group of people are not City officials, and the opportunities are fake. The City is aware of these letters being distributed in the Valhalla Park and Bishop Lavis areas. Scams are, however, rife in many areas across the metro. Residents must always pause and verify all communication purporting to be from the City and regarding a City housing opportunity by phoning the Human Settlements Call Centre on 021 444 0333.
‘We have been made aware of these so called ‘happy letters’ being distributed in areas in the metro including Valhalla Park and Bishop Lavis. The group of people distributing them claim to be in contact with City Human Settlements officials and the letters seem to indicate the resident has been selected for a housing opportunity in the City’s Valhalla Park housing project. The group of people are also apparently charging residents R20 for the letter. Remember, if you’re offered a housing opportunity that requires cash, it’s a scam.
‘The City once again would like to inform residents that City housing opportunities are free and qualifying residents will never be asked to pay for confirmation of an opportunity, placement on the City’s Housing Needs Register, or for allocation of housing opportunities. We urge residents to remain cautious and verify before engaging with possible scammers,’ said the Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Councillor Carl Pophaim.
Remember:
- If cash is required, it’s a scam. The City will never request payment for housing opportunities.
- All legitimate communication about City housing opportunities will come directly from City officials, through our formal and verifiable channels.
- If in doubt, always phone the City’s Human Settlements Call Centre on 021 444 0333.
Beneficiaries are reminded to keep their housing registration details updated so they may be contacted when it is their turn for a legitimate opportunity. Visit the City’s housing offices or use official channels to update your contact information.
Report:
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
