The Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act 19 of 1998 or (PIE).
The purpose of PIE is to protect both occupiers and landowners. It prohibits illegal eviction on the one hand and spells out
procedures for eviction of unlawful occupiers on the other.

No, the PIE Act provides specific procedures that must be followed for lawful evictions and these may vary depending on the circumstances of each case​​.

An ‘unlawful occupier’ is someone who occupies land without the express or tacit consent of the owner or person in charge​​.

Land that has buildings or structures used for dwelling purposes is considered for residential purposes under the PIE Act​​.

The court considers the rights and needs of the occupiers, especially the elderly, children, disabled persons, and households headed by women, to determine what is just and equitable for eviction orders​​.

Duration of occupancy does not necessarily affect the eviction process; however, the court will take additional circumstances into consideration if it is beyond the 6 month period​​.

An unopposed application is when the respondent (tenant) does not oppose the eviction application filed by the applicant (landlord)​​.

An opposed application is when the tenant disputes the eviction and provides a defence against the landlord’s application​​.

To avoid unlawful eviction, follow the procedures set out by the PIE Act, which include serving proper notice and obtaining a court order​​.

Perform thorough background checks, set clear lease terms, and consider using alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to address issues before they escalate​​.