The Government has introduced new rental regulations that remove rent controls on newly built rental properties for 25 years.
The move seeks to attract more investment into the housing sector. It also aims to increase the availability of rental accommodation across Zimbabwe.
The changes appear in Statutory Instrument 131 of 2026, known as the Rent (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (No. 2).
The Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities introduced the amendments under Section 24 of the Housing and Building Act [Chapter 22:07].
New rental properties must register but avoid price controls
Under the updated regulations, developers must register newly constructed rental dwellings with the Rent Board.
However, authorities will not control rental charges for those properties during the first 25 years.
The Government believes the exemption will create a more favourable environment for property developers and landlords.
According to the statutory instrument:
“The letting of new rental dwellings constructed after the date of commencement of these regulations. New rental dwellings shall be registered with the Rent Board, and the rentals being charged for such dwellings shall not be controlled for a period of twenty-five years.”
The policy change provides developers with greater certainty when planning new housing projects.
It also encourages private investment by allowing market-driven rental pricing for new developments.
Regulations introduce currency payment requirements
Meanwhile, the amended rules have also updated requirements surrounding rental payments.
The regulations state that landlords must request payments using legally accepted currency at the time.
The statutory instrument states:
“Lessor of a dwelling shall quote or demand payment in legally acceptable currency prevailing at that time.”
The Government published the Rent (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (No. 2), in a supplement to the Zimbabwean Government Gazette Extraordinary.
The notice was issued on 31 July 2026.
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