Looking to rent a property in Zimbabwe or let out your investment? Navigating the rental market can feel overwhelming, especially with constantly changing market conditions and legal requirements. As Zimbabwe’s largest property platform with over 8,600 listings across 80 cities and towns, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help both tenants and landlords understand the rental process through estate agents.
Understanding Zimbabwe’s Rental Market in 2025
Before diving into the rental process, it’s important to understand the current market context. According to our latest data:
- Harare dominates with 70% of all rental listings
- Bulawayo represents 15% of the market
- Monthly rental ranges vary significantly:
- Cottages/Garden flats: $300-900
- 2-3 bedroom apartments: $500-1,500
- Townhouses: $800-2,000
- Standalone houses: $450-7,000
The Rental Process Through Estate Agents
1. Property Search and Viewing
For tenants, the process begins with:
- Determining your budget (including utilities and additional costs)
- Researching preferred locations
- Contacting registered estate agents
- Scheduling viewings
Pro tip: Work only with registered agents listed with the Estate Agents Council of Zimbabwe (EACZ) to avoid fraud. Learn more about avoiding property scams.
2. Required Documentation
Tenants typically need to provide:
- Valid identification
- Proof of employment/income
- References from previous landlords
- Security deposit (1-3 months’ rent)
- First month’s rent in advance
3. Understanding Additional Costs
Beyond the monthly rent, budget for:
- Utilities: $80-150/month
- Council rates/levies: $50-100/month
- Service charges (apartments): $20-50/month
- Parking fees: $20-50/month
- Agent fees: Approximately 10% of annual rent
- Internet services: $30-100/month
Lease Agreements
A proper lease agreement should include:
- Rental amount and payment terms
- Duration of lease
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Notice period requirements
- Property condition report
- Utilities and additional charges
- Pet policies
- Subletting rules
Tenant Rights and Landlord Obligations
Tenant Rights
- Quiet enjoyment of the property
- Proper maintenance and repairs
- Return of security deposit (if conditions met)
- Written notice for any changes
- Safe and habitable living conditions
Landlord Obligations
- Maintain structural integrity
- Ensure basic services function
- Handle major repairs
- Provide reasonable notice for inspections
- Maintain property insurance
Property Inspections
Move-in Inspection
Document:
- Existing damage
- Appliance condition
- Meter readings
- Photo evidence
- Inventory list
Regular Inspections
- Typically quarterly
- Requires 24-48 hours notice
- Should be documented
Dispute Resolution
Common disputes often involve:
- Maintenance issues
- Rent increases
- Security deposit returns
- Lease terminations
Resolution channels include:
- Direct negotiation
- Estate agent mediation
- Rent Board intervention
- Legal action (as a last resort)
Final Tip
It is important to go through registered estate agents. In this age of social media and Facebook operators, bogus, unregistered agents are everywhere and are taking advantage of uninformed users.
Margot Kenee, managing director of Property Link, a reputable, registered estate agent, active for over 20 years, spoke to Propertybook in an exclusive interview. She concluded by saying that users "need to know that they need to be dealing with the right people that are honourable."
Need professional assistance? Visit www.propertybook.co.zw to connect with verified estate agents in your area.
Looking to start your rental journey? Browse our extensive property listings or connect with our network of over 2,000 registered agents across Zimbabwe.
Data sourced from Propertybook’s market analysis, last updated February 2025. Market conditions may vary; contact a registered agent for current rates.
