'n Holistiese behuisingsevalueringsmodel: 'n Instrument vir ontwikkelingpraktisyns in laekoste-behuising

Abstract

A theoretically grounded Holistic Housing Evaluation Model (HHEM) for the evaluation of low-cost housing was developed from a human ecology perspective. The objectives for this article are to describe the construction process of the HHEM, to discuss the application of the evaluation model in the Wesbank community, and to compile a community profile with the HHEM as point of departure. Evaluation research using multiple data collection techniques including documentary content analysis, a semantograph, focus groups and a survey using a structured questionnaire was applied. The HHEM was compiled after examining the South African government policy and legislation, analysis of the literature and identification of the indicators obtained from focus groups aimed at determining housing quality. The HHEM was used as a framework for the development of a questionnaire, which was applied in a survey in the low-cost housing area of Wesbank. By applying the HHEM, a community’s needs and other related housing aspects can be identified and it is possible to construct a community profile. Meaningful conclusions can be made regarding issues in that community and then visually displayed in a model for easy application by development practitioners.

Key words: Low-cost housing, evaluation research, housing evaluation model, housing legislation, community participation, communities, housing indicators, adequate housing, housing structure