(1) Where an authority or any resident of an authority area considers that the owner or occupier of residential premises in the authority area—
(a) is using or occupying or permitting the use or occupation of the premises in a manner which; or
(b) is carrying on or permitting the carrying on of any activity in respect of the premises which or in a manner which;
is having or is likely to have a harmful effect upon the general standard, character or amenity of the neighborhood in which the premises are situated or is causing or is likely to cause undue interference with the rights of the residents thereof, the authority or resident concerned may apply to the housing court for a control order.
(2) A resident of an authority area may request the authority concerned to apply for a control order and if after investigating the matter the authority considers that grounds exist for a control order the authority shall apply therefor:
Provided that the failure or refusal by an authority to apply for a control order following upon a request in terms of this subsection shall not preclude the resident concerned or any other resident from applying for a control order.