South African Rental Housing Association (SARHA)
Effective Date: 01 January 2026
1. Introduction
The South African Rental Housing Association (SARHA) (“SARHA”, “we”, “us”, or “our”) is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is collected and used properly, lawfully, and transparently.
This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information when you access our website, platform, and services.
By using our platform or providing us with your personal information, you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.
2. Information We Collect
We may collect and process the following categories of personal information:
2.1 Personal Identification Information
- Full name
- Email address
- Contact details
- Identification or registration details where required
2.2 Account & Membership Information
- Membership status and profile data
- Property ownership or listing details
- Professional or business information
2.3 Transaction & Interaction Data
- Communications with SARHA
- Dispute resolution records
- Service usage activity
2.4 Technical Information
- IP address
- Browser type and version
- Device information
- Website usage data and analytics
3. How We Collect Information
We collect personal information through:
- Direct interactions (forms, registrations, applications)
- Use of our website and platform
- Communications via email or support channels
- Third-party integrations where applicable
4. Purpose of Processing Personal Information
We collect and process your personal information for the following purposes:
- To provide and manage SARHA services
- To register and verify members and properties
- To facilitate rental marketplace interactions
- To support dispute resolution processes
- To communicate updates, notices, and relevant information
- To improve our platform, services, and user experience
- To comply with legal and regulatory obligations
5. Legal Basis for Processing
We process personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) based on:
- Your consent
- Performance of a contract
- Compliance with legal obligations
- Legitimate interests in operating and improving our services
6. Sharing of Information
We may share your personal information with:
- Service providers and platform partners
- Regulatory or governmental authorities where required
- Dispute resolution or mediation parties
- Professional advisors or auditors
We ensure that all third parties receiving your information are bound by appropriate confidentiality and data protection obligations.
We do not sell personal information.
7. Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal information against:
- Unauthorised access
- Loss or misuse
- Alteration or destruction
While we take all reasonable steps to secure your data, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.
8. Data Retention
We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to:
- Fulfil the purposes outlined in this policy
- Comply with legal and regulatory requirements
- Resolve disputes and enforce agreements
Once information is no longer required, it will be securely deleted or anonymised.
9. Your Rights
In terms of applicable data protection laws, you have the right to:
- Access your personal information
- Request correction or updates
- Request deletion of your information
- Object to processing
- Withdraw consent where applicable
- Lodge a complaint with a regulatory authority
To exercise any of these rights, please contact us at:
admin@sarha.org.za
10. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to:
- Enhance user experience
- Analyse website performance
- Store user preferences
You can control cookie settings through your browser.
11. Third-Party Links
Our platform may contain links to third-party websites. SARHA is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these external sites.
12. Cross-Border Data Transfers
Where necessary, personal information may be transferred outside South Africa. In such cases, we ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your data in accordance with applicable laws.
13. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements.
The updated version will be published on our website with a revised effective date.
14. Contact Us
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or your personal information, please contact:
Email: admin@sarha.org.za
15. Acceptance of Policy
By using SARHA’s platform and services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to this Privacy Policy.