Government has introduced sweeping changes to Zimbabwe’s rent regulations through Statutory Instrument 131 of 2026, extending rent control exemptions for newly constructed rental properties and allowing landlords to charge rent in any legally acceptable currency.
In a statement, yesterday, the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services said the reforms are designed to create a more attractive investment environment for property developers while aligning the country’s rental market with prevailing economic conditions.
“The Government of Zimbabwe has gazetted Statutory Instrument 131 of 2026, introducing significant changes to the country’s rent regulations aimed at encouraging investment in the housing sector,” the Ministry said.
According to the Ministry, one of the major amendments is the extension of the rent control exemption period for newly built rental dwellings from 10 years to 25 years.
“New rental dwellings constructed after the commencement of the regulations will be exempt from rent control for 25 years, up from the previous 10-year exemption, provided they are registered with the Rent Board,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry noted that the measure is intended to improve the viability of housing projects by giving investors greater certainty over long-term returns.
The statutory instrument also introduces greater flexibility in rental transactions by permitting landlords and tenants to agree on rental payments in any legally recognised currency.
“Landlords may now legally quote and demand rent in any legally acceptable currency prevailing at the time, replacing the previous restriction that limited rent payments to a specific currency,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry said the latest amendments reflect Government’s commitment to modernising the regulatory framework governing the rental housing market in line with Zimbabwe’s multi-currency system.
“The amendments are expected to improve returns for property developers, encourage the construction of new rental housing, and provide greater flexibility in rental agreements while aligning the rental market with Zimbabwe’s prevailing multi-currency framework,” the Ministry said.
The reforms come at a time when Zimbabwe continues to pursue policies aimed at addressing housing demand through increased private sector participation in residential development.
By extending rent control exemptions and liberalising rental payment arrangements, the Government expects the new regulations to attract more investment into residential construction, expand the stock of rental accommodation and support broader efforts to improve access to housing while fostering growth in the country’s property sector.
