The Consumer Council of Fiji has raised alarms over a growing surge in complaints regarding landlord and tenancy issues, with notable increases recorded over the past three years. Chief Executive Seema Shandil reported that the Council received 965 complaints in 2023, followed by 859 in 2024, and with 978 already registered in the current year, it reflects an escalating concern among tenants in the community.
Shandil remarked that the Council expects these numbers to climb as the year progresses. She highlighted various troubling conditions in several rental properties, many of which fail to meet safety standards necessary for tenants. Additionally, there have been several cases involving unlawful evictions and disconnections of essential utilities, further exacerbating the living conditions for some residents.
The complaints predominantly center around issues such as unlawful evictions, unclear or inadequate tenancy agreements, and unreasonable restrictions imposed by landlords. In response to these ongoing challenges, Shandil emphasized the Council’s commitment to working collaboratively with both landlords and tenants to resolve these issues effectively.
Minister for Finance, Commerce, and Business Development, Esrom Immanuel, has also weighed in on the situation, urging both parties to adhere to legal regulations and established guidelines. He stressed that such compliance is critical for fostering a stable and functional rental environment.
This ongoing communication among the Council, landlords, and tenants is essential for nurturing a fair rental market while ensuring that the rights of both landlords and tenants are honored and observed. The proactive approaches being taken to address these grievances offer a positive outlook for improvements in Fiji’s rental landscape, aiming for a balanced and equitable environment for all involved.