House rent can’t be increased before two years: DNCC

The Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has issued new guidelines on house rent, stating that once a standard rent is set, it will remain effective for two years, and rent increases can only occur during June–July. Under no circumstances can rent be raised before the completion of this period.

The announcement was made at a press conference held at the DNCC City Hall in Gulshan on Tuesday, January 20. DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz was present at the conference.

According to the guidelines, rent can only be revised after two years, either through mutual agreement or standard assessment. If a tenant fails to pay rent, the landlord must first issue a verbal warning. Persistent non-payment allows the landlord to serve a written notice demanding dues be paid and the property vacated within two months, canceling any previous agreement if necessary.

For residential properties, either party can terminate the rental agreement with two months’ notice. Annual rent increases cannot exceed 15% of the property’s current market value. Rental agreements must clearly outline terms, conditions, advance payments, and timelines for vacating. Landlords cannot demand more than one to three months’ advance rent.

Ward-based landlord and tenant associations will mediate disputes locally. Issues that remain unresolved must be reported to the regional executive officer of DNCC.

The DNCC emphasised that all landlords and tenants must comply with the Rent Control Act, 1991. Any disputes will be addressed through ward- or zone-level consultations to ensure tenant rights are protected.