Water security has become a legitimate property consideration as municipal outages and infrastructure failures increasingly disrupt suburban life. This comes as South Africa faces the prospect of a strong El Niño event during the 2026/2027 summer season, which could further affect homeowners, particularly in areas vulnerable to drought. With it comes the possibility of water restrictions.
In the same way that load-shedding impacted how buyers viewed a property – seeking homes that had alternative methods of power supply – water-infrastructure and the impact of climate change on water availability, could increasingly influence buying decisions.
Tyson Properties’ Neil Abernethy says this presents a unique opportunity for homeowners, who may eventually become sellers, to add value to their properties. “The issue is not merely about residents having to cope with water shortages or outages, it is also about making a property more resilient and appealing when it comes time to sell.
“Either way, conserving water and introducing water-wise upgrades are smart moves. They lower monthly water bills, and are practical ways of improving the quality of life.”
Abernethy says there are several ways homeowners can reduce their reliance on municipal water and make better use of what is available. His recommendations range from the basics to more sophisticated systems.
Consider the basics
“These – together with the installation of filtration systems for drinking water in areas where municipal water does not pass muster – are all good ways of not only improving your quality of life but also making your property more attractive to buyers,” says Abernethy.
- Rainwater harvesting tanks.
- Professionally installed greywater systems.
- Boreholes, where permitted and appropriate.
- Dual-flush toilets.
- Low-flow showerheads.
- Aerated taps.
- Water filtration systems.
- Water-efficient irrigation.
Rainwater harvesting is a practical starting point
Rainwater tanks are among the more common water-saving upgrades. Connected to gutters, they collect runoff from the roof and can be used for irrigation or, where appropriately plumbed, to supply certain household needs.
But homeowners should check municipal requirements before installing a tank. “Local authorities have different requirements; some require the submission of building plans before rainwater tanks can be fitted,” says Abernethy.
Although it is possible for a handy DIYer to fit a tank, Abernethy recommends using an experienced installer. “Neat workmanship and effective and efficient fittings can add overall value to your property. A local expert can also get you up to speed with any rules or regulations.”
The location and appearance of a tank can also make a difference. Placing it discreetly or incorporating screening such as timber or bamboo can make the installation less visually intrusive.
“Maintenance is equally important. Rainwater tanks need to be kept clean and properly managed to prevent them becoming breeding or nesting sites for mosquitoes.”
Think carefully before sinking a borehole
A borehole can provide significant water independence, particularly on larger properties and smallholdings, but it is a more substantial investment,. “It also comes with a warning: ensure that all the correct procedures are followed and that the required environmental impact assessment (EIA) is lodged with the relevant local authorities, especially if you intend selling your property in the near future,” advises Abernethy.
“Based on advice from a water treatment expert, it is imperative to have the water extracted from the borehole tested. If you are not drawing water from a clean aquifer, there is a strong chance that you’ll find high levels of dissolved solids (minerals such as iron, calcium or others) as well as bacteria, which means that it is not suitable for drinking and could even damage or corrode geysers, air conditioners, and piping.”
Greywater opportunities
Greywater systems collect relatively clean wastewater from sources such as baths and washing machines, and redirect it for suitable uses, such as garden irrigation or toilet flushing. However, unlike simply installing a collection tank, these systems require careful plumbing and appropriate treatment, so professional installation is advisable.
The objective is not to create another maintenance headache, but to reduce the amount of potable municipal water used for tasks that do not require drinking-quality water.
Small changes can reduce consumption
Not every water-saving upgrade requires major expenditure. “These could include dual-flush toilets, low-flow showerheads, and aerated taps, which cut daily indoor water consumption.
“This approach can have a double benefit, helping out when water is running short and municipal services are dubious, as well as lowering monthly water bills when all is up and running perfectly,” says Abernethy.
The benefits of even these minor water-saving features extend beyond a property's future resale appeal.
A buyer's checklist
If water security is important to you, look beyond whether a property simply has a tank or borehole.
Ask:
- Does the property have an alternative water supply?
- What capacity does the rainwater tank have?
- What is the water used for?
- Is the system professionally installed?
- What maintenance does it require?
- Is there a borehole, and has the water been tested?
- Are the necessary approvals or plans in place?
- Are there water-efficient fixtures throughout the home?
- Does the property have a greywater system?
- How does the property cope when municipal water is unavailable?
The takeaway: Homeowners do not necessarily need to undertake expensive upgrades, but well-planned water-saving measures can reduce household consumption, provide greater security during outages and potentially make a property more appealing to future buyers.
As Abernethy puts it, the objective is not simply to prepare for the next water shortage, but to improve the property's long-term appeal and liveability.
