Major relief for Dhaka tenants as DNCC introduces new house rent rules

Homeowners in Dhaka have long followed the practice of raising house rents every year. Under a new directive, however, landlords will be barred from increasing rent until at least two years have passed.

The order has been issued by the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC).

Speaking to reporters at the DNCC headquarters in Gulshan-2 on Tuesday, DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz said the widespread practice of hiking rents in January must come to an end.

Under the new policy, rent adjustments will be allowed only during a designated window of the fiscal year, between June and July.

The guideline clearly spells out landlords’ obligations, requiring them to keep rental properties livable, ensure uninterrupted supplies of gas, electricity and water, and arrange regular waste collection. Landlords will also be encouraged to promote greenery on rooftops, balconies and other open spaces.

For security purposes, landlords will be required, under certain conditions, to provide tenants with keys to the main gate and rooftop.

The directive also outlines tenants’ responsibilities. Tenants must pay rent by the 10th of every month and obtain a written receipt. Their right to access the rented premises will be safeguarded, while landlords must give prior notice of any changes or security-related measures.

According to the guideline, a fixed standard rent will remain in force for two years, during which no increase will be allowed. Any revision after that period must be based on mutual consent. If a tenant fails to pay rent regularly, the landlord may terminate the agreement and initiate eviction proceedings after issuing a written notice.

The policy further stipulates that any annual rent hike must not exceed 15 percent of the property’s market value.

All terms and conditions between landlords and tenants must be set out in a written agreement. Advance rent will be capped at one to three months. Additionally, local landlord–tenant associations will be established to handle arbitration and dispute resolution, while the city corporation will offer ward-level support to help resolve conflicts.