Landlords cannot increase rent for another year after the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission has extended the rent freeze policy on residential and ground rents till 31st December 2021.
CEO Joel Abraham says their assessment took into account that many Fijians are currently struggling financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
He says it has been extended to maintain a certain level of control and to ensure fair treatment of tenants.
Abraham adds for newer properties, the rent applicable for the first letting becomes the base rent and any increase thereafter would be subject to the rent freeze during this period.
FCCC is urging Fijians to observe the requirements under the Rent Freeze Order and to contact the Commission for any illegal rent increase or failure of landlords to issue proper agreements and receipts.
