Zimbabwe Property Owners Face Fresh Crackdown Over Dilapidated Buildings

Govt Orders Councils To Crack Down On Dilapidated Buildings Across Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean property owners are facing increased scrutiny after the Government ordered local authorities to intensify enforcement against dilapidated, unsafe and poorly maintained buildings across the country.

The directive was announced by Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe during a press conference in Harare on Thursday, 17 September 2026. It applies to all 92 local authorities and covers commercial and residential properties.

Property Owners Face New Abatement Orders

Councils have been instructed to identify buildings and surrounding areas considered unsafe, unsanitary or otherwise unacceptable and begin issuing abatement orders.

The measures cover shopping centres, business complexes, industrial properties, offices, churches and residential premises.

Garwe said:

“With immediate effect, ladies and gentlemen, abatement orders shall be issued to all building owners with dilapidated or undesirable buildings across all our 92 local authorities.”

Owners may be required to repair, renovate, repaint and clean their properties, including boundary walls, pavements and surrounding yards.

Illegal Developments Also Targeted

The Government is also tightening enforcement against unauthorised construction and illegal building alterations.

Garwe said planning authorities would issue enforcement orders where unlawful developments are identified, requiring those responsible to stop or rectify the work.

Failure to comply with applicable abatement orders can result in a Level Five fine, imprisonment of up to six months, or both, depending on the relevant legislation.

The directive forms part of a broader Government drive to improve safety, cleanliness and the condition of urban areas.

Garwe said the campaign would not be a temporary exercise, describing it as an ongoing programme involving “restoration, enforcement, rehabilitation and improved safety delivery”.

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