Renting property in Zimbabwe

Ask whether the property is on council water or borehole. Check water pressure by running all taps simultaneously. Borehole properties offer more reliable supply; confirm the pump is serviced and ask when it was last maintained.

ZESA load-shedding is a reality in Zimbabwe. Ask about the power backup situation: is there a generator, solar system, or inverter? If solar, what does it cover (geysers, lights, plugs, whole house)? A property without backup can mean hours of darkness per day.

Check the perimeter wall height, electric fence (ask if it is active and paid-up), gate motor, alarm system, and whether the estate or street has security patrols. Ask neighbours about the neighbourhood safety at different times.

Check cell signal strength from inside the property (Econet, NetOne). Ask if fibre has been installed (TelOne, Dandemutande, Liquid) or if the landlord will permit installation. Poor connectivity affects remote work, entertainment, and communication.

Test all taps, flush toilets, check for damp (check ceiling corners, under windows, in cupboards), open and close all windows and doors, check that stove burners, oven, and water heater work. Report any defects in writing before or on move-in.

Most leases in Zimbabwe run for 12 months with an option to renew. Some landlords offer 6-month leases for a premium. A fixed-term lease protects you from eviction without cause during the term.

USD-denominated rentals typically escalate annually. The escalation percentage should be fixed in the lease (commonly 5-15% per year in Zimbabwe's current environment). Do not sign a lease that gives the landlord the right to increase rent at any time without notice.

The lease should clearly define who is responsible for what. Landlords typically maintain structure, roof, plumbing, and electrical installations. Tenants maintain cleanliness, garden (unless a gardener is provided), and minor repairs (blocked drains, light bulb replacement, etc.).

Do not sublet without written permission from the landlord. Most leases prohibit it. Subletting without consent can result in immediate lease cancellation.

The lease should specify the required notice to vacate (typically 1-3 months). Leaving without proper notice can mean forfeiting your deposit or liability for rent during the notice period.

In Zimbabwe, deposits are typically 1-3 months' rent. Some landlords in prime areas ask for 2 months. Confirm the exact amount in the lease.

Unlike some jurisdictions, Zimbabwe does not mandate that landlord hold deposits in a separate trust account. Ask your landlord where the deposit is held. In ideal practice, it should be in a separate account, get written confirmation.

Conduct a joint inspection with the landlord before moving in. Document every existing defect in writing (take photos) and have the landlord sign the inspection report. This protects you from being charged for pre-existing damage when you vacate.

On vacating, you are entitled to your deposit back minus any deductions for damage beyond fair wear and tear. The landlord must provide an itemised list of deductions. Normal wear and tear (minor scuffs on walls, small carpet wear) is not your liability. If the landlord refuses to return the deposit without valid reason, you can approach the Rent Board.

If the property has a pre-paid meter, you simply purchase tokens from OK, TM, or via EcoCash. If it is a post-paid account, the landlord may include electricity in the rent or you may need to transfer the ZESA account to your name, this requires a visit to the ZESA offices with your ID and lease.

Contact your local authority (Harare City Council, Bulawayo City Council, etc.) to notify them of the tenancy. Some landlords include rates in the rent; others require you to pay your own share. Confirm in writing before signing the lease.

TelOne ADSL is available in many suburbs. Fibre providers (Liquid, Dandemutande, ZOL) have coverage in parts of Harare and Bulawayo. Allow 2-6 weeks for installation. Portable wifi via Econet or NetOne is a useful backup.

Your landlord must maintain the property in a liveable condition. A roof that leaks, non-functioning plumbing, or a dangerous electrical installation is the landlord's responsibility to fix. Report all defects in writing and keep copies.

Your landlord cannot enter the property without reasonable notice (typically 24-48 hours) except in genuine emergencies. Unannounced visits are a breach of your right to quiet enjoyment.

A landlord cannot change your locks, remove your possessions, or cut off utilities to force you to leave. These constitute illegal eviction. The landlord must follow the formal notice and Rent Board process.

Zimbabwe's Rent Board (under the Rent Regulations Act) handles disputes between landlords and tenants, including excessive rent increases, unlawful evictions, and deposit disputes. You can approach the Rent Board in your city if you cannot resolve a dispute directly.