High levels of violent crime, robberies, house burglaries and hijackings are forcing people to abandon freestanding properties in favour of high-security housing complexes or estates.
While security complexes offer numerous advantages, such as heightened security and well-maintained public spaces, communal living comes with a price tag, namely the levies and taxes.
Homeowners living in complexes often complain that levies are too high and, in some cases, increases of up to 65% have been reported.
Personal finance website JustMoney.co.za spoke to property experts about what is legal and fair, and what owners can do if they feel their levies are excessive.