Dhaka, Jan 20 (V7N) — The Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has issued a comprehensive guideline for the effective implementation of the Rent Control Act, 1991, aiming to protect the rights of both tenants and landlords. The guideline was officially released on Tuesday (January 20).

DNCC organized a press conference at Nagar Bhaban in Gulshan, where DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz highlighted the key aspects of the new directive related to rent management and housing standards.

According to the guideline, house owners must ensure that rented premises are fit for living. Continuous utility services, regular household waste collection, and other essential facilities must be provided. The guideline also encourages both landlords and tenants to participate in greening rooftops, balconies, and open spaces around buildings.

To enhance safety, especially considering risks such as fire or earthquakes, landlords are required to provide 100 percent access to rooftop and main gate keys to each tenant.

Regarding rent payment, the guideline stipulates that tenants must pay rent by the 10th of every month. Landlords are required to issue a specific monthly rent receipt, and tenants must collect a signed written receipt at the time of payment. Tenants will have access rights to the premises at all times.

If landlords intend to take any action related to security or discipline, they must inform tenants in advance and obtain their consent. Any disputes should be resolved through mutual negotiation.

The guideline further states that standard rent will remain unchanged for two years from the date of implementation. No rent increase will be allowed during this period under any circumstances. After two years, rent may be revised through standard or bilateral negotiations, with the rent increase period fixed between June and July. However, annual rent increases must not exceed 15 percent of the prevailing market rate in the concerned area.

In cases of delayed rent payment, landlords must first issue a verbal warning. If rent remains unpaid for two consecutive months, a written eviction notice may be served with a two-month deadline, after which the rental agreement may be cancelled. For residential properties, either party may terminate the agreement by providing two months’ notice.

The guideline mandates that written rental agreements must clearly mention rent amount, conditions, advance deposits, rent increase clauses, and the procedure for vacating the premises. Landlords are prohibited from taking more than one to three months’ rent as advance.

To ensure smooth implementation, the guideline calls for the formation of ward-based landlord and tenant associations under DNCC. Representatives from both sides will assist in rent determination at the local level. Any unresolved disputes should be reported through the regional executive officer of the city corporation.

DNCC also emphasized the need to raise awareness among tenants and landlords about the guideline and announced plans to organize zone-based meetings and discussions to address complaints and complications related to rental issues.

END/SMA/AJ