Providing student accommodation through NSFAS can be a great opportunity for property owners. By listing your property on the NSFAS platform, you can make it accessible to NSFAS-funded students while ensuring compliance with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) norms and standards. Here’s how the process works and what you need to get started.
How to register my NSFAS commune
Sign Up: Registering your property on the NSFAS platform is the first step toward becoming an accredited student accommodation provider.
Here’s a quick guide on how to get started:
- Register on the platform: Visit the NSFAS website and sign up as an accommodation provider. You’ll need to create an account using your personal or company details.
- Verify your account: An email will be sent to your inbox. Follow the link in the email to verify your account.
- Submit details: Provide your personal and/or company details. This step is important as it will be used to verify your identity or that of your company.
- Upload property information and pictures: Include detailed information about your property, such as the number of beds and amenities, along with clear pictures.
- Pay the once-off registration fee: NSFAS charges a fee per bed, depending on the size of your property. The fee structure is:
- NSFAS verification: After submitting your application, NSFAS will review your submission. You’ll be informed of the next steps.
- Property inspection: An NSFAS Accreditation Agent will schedule a visit to inspect your property. The inspection ensures your property meets DHET accreditation criteria, including health, safety, and security standards.
- Get listed: Once accredited, your property will be listed on the NSFAS platform and become visible to NSFAS-funded students searching for accommodation.
What is the NSFAS Student accommodation registration cost?
NSFAS works on a sliding scale:
- 1 to 20 beds: R200 per bed
- 21 to 50 beds: R150 per bed
- 51 to 100 beds: R125 per bed
- 100+ beds: R100 per bed
Managing your NSFAS Property and Lease Agreement
The NSFAS platform offers tools to help you manage the lease and overall student accommodation experience:
- Sign lease agreements electronically: You and the student can sign lease agreements electronically via the platform.
- Manage the lease lifecycle: From initial signing to termination, you can handle all aspects of the lease digitally.
- Auto-generate invoices: Invoices for NSFAS payments can be generated automatically, and your account history will be available at any time.
- Track property issues: You can report any breakages or maintenance issues directly on the platform.
- Issue warnings: If necessary, you can issue warnings to students for breaches of the lease.
- Platform fees: NSFAS will deduct 5% of your monthly revenue as a platform license fee, which will be taken automatically before your funds are disbursed.
What do I need to open NSFAS student accommodation?
When applying to register your property, there are a few crucial documents that NSFAS requires for both individuals and companies. Here’s a breakdown of the most important documents:
- B-BBEE Certificate: Accepted documents include Sworn Affidavits for Exempted Micro Enterprises or Qualifying Small Enterprises, CIPC-generated B-BBEE certificates, or SANAS accredited certificates.
- Company Registration: Submit your CIPC-issued registration document, whether you are a Non-profit Company, Private Company, Trust, or other entity.
- Proof of Address: Documents like utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, or tribal authority letters can be used to confirm your property’s physical address.
- Proof of ID: Submit a copy of your green bar-coded ID, smart ID card, passport, or driver’s license.
Property-Related Documents Required for NSFAS
To ensure that your property complies with regulatory requirements, you’ll also need to submit the following documents:
- Building Plans: A municipality-approved plan with a visible municipal stamp of approval is necessary.
- Electrical Certificate of Compliance (COC): This certificate proves that your property’s electrical system meets safety standards.
- Fire Compliance Certificate: This includes proof that fire protection equipment is installed and in working order.
- Proof of Ownership: If you own the property, submit the Title Deed. If the property is leased, a lease agreement or owner’s consent is required.
- Zoning Certificate: The property must be appropriately zoned for student accommodation. A municipality-issued certificate or tribal authority letter will suffice.
Conclusion
By following these steps and ensuring that all required documents are submitted, you can register your property on NSFAS and begin accommodating students. The platform makes it easy to manage lease agreements, payments, and compliance, while ensuring that students find safe and reliable accommodation. Make sure your property meets all the necessary standards and start your journey toward becoming an accredited NSFAS accommodation provider today!
