Well, according to the experts at law firm, Phatshoane Henney, there are a few considerations you need to make before doing so.

Corlia van Zyl, the Director heading up transfers in Phatshoane Henney’s property department, tells the OFM Business Hour that the type of generator that you want to install, is the first consideration that needs to be made.

• Types of generators

There is a back-up and a standby generator. According to Van Zyl, the former is independently run and is not connected to your electrical system. Whereas, the latter is directly connected to your main switchboard and needs to be installed in consultation with a qualified electrician.

• Check your municipal by-laws

You must check your local municipal by-laws to determine if you need written consent to install a generator at your business or residential premises.

• Health and safety regulations 

Van Zyl says “if you’re living in a complex or sectional title scheme, you need to comply with the rules” of said scheme. These may pertain to noise pollution or the presence of a flammable substance on your property.

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“Load-shedding has become an everyday occurrence in our lives and one is therefore entitled to make your own provision for electricity during these times. But one must always keep in mind that you are not alone in your decision making process and that the rights of your fellow community members must also be considered. So it’s important to make sure you obtain the necessary consent from your local municipality and utilise an electrician where necessary, because non-compliance can be seen as an offence,” warns Van Zyl.

The Director heading up transfers in Phatshoane Henney’s property department, further adds that investing in solar panels and inverters may be a more eco-friendly alternative to generators.

OFM