Dealing with various household-related services in South Africa can be a challenge. Although there is no shortage of service companies, the standards of workmanship are, should we say, a lot more relaxed compared to USA and most European countries, and ability to arrive and accomplish work in time is practically non-existent. Thankfully, rates and fees are considerably lower than what you may be used to (although always reconfirm the amounts while making an appointment).

Most service providers will charge a call-out fee ranging between R 150 and R 250, plus hourly labour fees and cost of materials. Some companies offer free quotes so ask about this when booking an appointment. Pool, garden and armed response services will usually require you to sign a contract, in which case your weekly or monthly fees will be fixed. Before paying or signing invoices for any work, always make sure that the work has been done to your satisfaction. 

Below is the list of some of the companies that are being used by CapetownExpat.com members. These are recommended in as much as they are more consistent in terms of workmanship and are more often on time compared to the rest of the bunch. If you would like to recommend a service provider you have been particularly happy with, please be sure to let us know!      

Electricians

• Active Electric 24 Hrs, Sea Point, tel.:  021 439 4311

Garden Services

• Greenfingers - Susanne Becker 084 497 3394
• Friendly Garden - Liesl Rayment 082 899 4474
• Ricks Garden Service 021 706 1647 or 072 210 2481
• Southern Garden Service 021 706 4685 or 083 463 4758

An alternative to employing a Garden Service is to employ a private Gardener. If you do so, make sure he/she are recommended by a trusted person. Also be aware, that a private Gardener is entitled to the same protection by law as your Domestic worker. For implications please refer to Domestic Help section.

• Pool Doctor 021 761 9121
• Pool Care Clinic 021 762 0156
• Net for Pools - Cover It, Christa 083 774 2561

Security Systems and Armed Response

• ADT Armed Response, all areas 0860 100 911 / 086 121 2300
• Chubb Armed Response, all areas 021 788 3152 0861 02 1911
• City Bowl Armed Response, all areas 021 426 0743 086 015 1515 
• Coastal Security in Hout Bay 021 790 2643
• Safe'n Secure, all areas 021 466 8960

Window Cleaning

• Barry’s Window Cleaning Services, 021 531 1193
• Window Shine, 021 559 4338

Most window cleaning companies will offer a discount for regular customers. It could also be a good idea to get a few neighbors together to negotiate a reduced rate per household.

Last updated: August 10, 2008