Major relief for Dhaka tenantsDNCC sets new rules on house rent

Homeowners in Dhaka traditionally raise house rents every year. However, under a new directive, landlords will no longer be allowed to increase rent before the completion of two years.

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

Speaking to journalists at the DNCC headquarters in Gulshan-2 on Tuesday, DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz said that increasing house rent in January has become a common practice and must be stopped.

Under the new policy, rent revisions will only be allowed during a specific period of the fiscal year, between June and July.

The guideline clearly outlines the responsibilities of landlords, making it mandatory for them to keep rented properties habitable, ensure uninterrupted utility services—gas, electricity and water and arrange regular household waste collection. Landlords will also be encouraged to allow greenery on rooftops, balconies or other open spaces.

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

The directive also defines tenants’ responsibilities. Tenants must pay rent by the 10th of each month and collect a written receipt.

Their right of access to the rented premises will remain protected while landlords will be obliged to inform tenants in advance of any changes or security-related measures.

According to the guideline, a fixed standard rent will remain valid for two years, during which no rent increase will be permitted. Any adjustment after this period must be made through mutual agreement. If a tenant fails to pay rent regularly, the landlord may cancel the agreement and proceed with eviction after issuing a written notice.

It also stipulates that any annual rent increase must not exceed 15 percent of the market value of the property.

All terms and conditions between landlords and tenants must be documented in a written agreement. Advance rent will be limited to a maximum of one to three months.

In addition, local landlord and tenant associations will be formed to handle arbitration and dispute resolution, while the city corporation will provide ward-level assistance to help resolve conflicts.