Accommodation in Zimbabwe

You can expect a wide range of options for accommodation in Zimbabwe, particularly in Harare and Bulawayo, the country’s two largest cities. Whether you’re relocating for work or personal reasons, you’ll find a variety of housing choices that cater to different tastes and budgets. Zimbabwe offers a comfortable living environment, from modern city apartments to spacious suburban homes.

Many expats start by renting accommodation in Zimbabwe, particularly in Harare or Bulawayo, to get acquainted with the local area before committing to long-term housing. Renting allows flexibility, and you can always buy property later, although you’ll need to negotiate specific regulations when it comes to property ownership. As a result, renting is often the more common choice for newcomers to the country.

Types of accommodation in Zimbabwe

Accommodation in Zimbabwe varies by location, and Harare and Bulawayo have a good selection of housing options. While the standard of housing is generally high, availability and cost can fluctuate depending on the region.

In Harare and Bulawayo, apartments are particularly prevalent in urban centres like Harare’s CBD or Bulawayo’s city centre. These properties are more affordable than townhouses or houses and are widely available. Many offer modern amenities like controlled access, security, and sometimes communal facilities.

Townhouses provide a middle ground between apartments and freestanding houses. Often located in gated communities, they balance space and affordability while including shared amenities and enhanced security. You’ll find them in popular suburbs like Chisipite and Greendale in Harare or Suburbs in Bulawayo, and they provide a more residential feel without the high costs of standalone houses.

Freestanding houses are standalone properties usually found in suburban areas. They offer the most space and privacy, often with large gardens or outdoor areas, which makes them ideal for families. However, these homes come with higher costs and maintenance needs, and availability is more limited in urban hotspots. Areas like Borrowdale in Harare and Selborne Park in Bulawayo are known for these spacious properties.

Garden cottages, or ‘granny flats,’ are smaller standalone units often built on the grounds of larger homes. These affordable options are ideal for singles or couples seeking privacy. Most garden cottages have an open-plan layout and basic amenities like a kitchenette, making them popular in suburban areas of Harare and Bulawayo.

Gated communities are highly favoured by expats due to their comprehensive security features like controlled access, perimeter fencing, and sometimes 24/7 security personnel. These communities often include a mix of property types, along with shared facilities like parks or swimming pools.

Furnished vs unfurnished

When deciding between furnished and unfurnished rentals in Zimbabwe, your choice will largely depend on your needs and circumstances. Furnished properties are perfect if you’re looking for convenience, as they allow you to move in immediately without the hassle of buying furniture. These are particularly popular for short-term stays or temporary assignments, although they typically come at a higher rental cost.

On the other hand, unfurnished properties are more affordable and give you the freedom to decorate and furnish the space to your own taste, but they require an initial investment in furniture and appliances. In urban centres like Harare and Bulawayo, you’ll find a variety of both options, with furnished apartments and townhouses being easier to find in expat-friendly areas.

Short lets

Short-term rentals in Zimbabwe are a convenient solution if you require temporary accommodation, whether for a business trip or while exploring local neighbourhoods before settling down. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo feature listings ranging from single rooms to entire homes, often located in sought-after areas of Harare and Bulawayo.

Short lets usually include utilities and furnishings, making them a hassle-free choice. While they come with higher nightly rates than long-term leases, the flexibility and convenience often compensate for the cost.

Finding accommodation in Zimbabwe

Searching for housing in Zimbabwe is made easier with trusted online property portals. Platforms like Property.co.zw and Private Property Zimbabwe offer a comprehensive range of listings for rental and sale. Digs Property and EasyFind Zimbabwe provide user-friendly tools to locate properties by area or budget. Additionally, ShonaHome connects tenants with private sellers and agents, making it easy to compare available options.

Estate agents in Zimbabwe can also streamline your search. They list and promote properties, provide insights on market trends, and handle negotiations and paperwork. Their fees, regulated under the Estate Agents Act, typically range up to 5.75 percent of the property value for sales, paid by the seller, or a standardised amount for rentals. Work with a reputable agent to ensure that the process is transparent and legally compliant.

Useful links

• Property.co.zw
• Private Property Zimbabwe
• Digs Property
• EasyFind Zimbabwe
• ShonaHome

Renting accommodation in Zimbabwe

When negotiating rental agreements, keep cultural nuances in mind. Approach discussions with professionalism and respect, and always ensure terms are captured in a written lease agreement. Familiarise yourself with local tenancy laws to protect your rights, and don’t hesitate to negotiate on key aspects like rent, maintenance responsibilities, and lease duration. Landlords in Zimbabwe often expect formal, amicable interactions, so maintaining a courteous tone can go a long way.

Making an application

When you’re applying to rent a property in Zimbabwe, landlords typically require specific documents. You’ll need a valid passport or national ID for identification and proof of income, such as recent payslips or bank statements, to show financial stability.

References from previous landlords or employers can also help demonstrate reliability. If you’re new to the country and lack local references, offering a higher security deposit, providing employment confirmation, or working with a reputable estate agent can build trust with landlords. 

Deposit

The standard deposit for rentals in Zimbabwe is typically equivalent to one month’s rent. This amount is refundable at the end of the lease term, provided the property is returned in good condition without damages or outstanding bills. In some cases, landlords may request a higher deposit, especially if references are unavailable or the property is high-value.

Leases

Fixed-term leases are common in Zimbabwe and usually last six months to several years. These agreements often include options for renewal, allowing you to extend your stay under mutually agreed terms. Month-to-month leases are less prevalent but provide greater flexibility for shorter commitments. Always review lease agreements carefully to understand terms related to rent increases, maintenance, and early termination.

Terminating the lease

Understanding your rights as a tenant is crucial when terminating a lease. Fixed-term leases may require you to serve a notice period or incur penalties if broken early. In contrast, periodic agreements tend to offer more flexibility but may vary in terms depending on regional practices. Always check the specific terms outlined in your lease agreement to avoid misunderstandings.

Utilities in Zimbabwe

Utilities such as electricity, water, and internet are usually not included in the rental price, so you should budget for these additional expenses. It’s essential to account for these additional costs when planning your monthly budget.

Electricity

The Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) is the primary provider of electricity, operating through its subsidiaries: Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), responsible for generation, and Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), managing transmission and distribution. Independent Power Producers (IPPs) also contribute to the grid, although on a smaller scale.

When you move in, you’ll receive a prepaid meter card to purchase electricity units and monitor usage. Electricity reliability varies across Zimbabwe. Urban areas like Harare and Bulawayo experience more stable supply than rural regions, although load shedding can occur. In rural areas, access to electricity is limited, with many households relying on alternative energy sources. Solar power adoption is growing in both urban and suburban areas as a backup solution during outages.

Gas

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is widely used in Zimbabwe and is supplied by companies like Total Zimbabwe, Oryx Energies, and Zuva Petroleum. Bottled gas is the most common form, as piped gas infrastructure is limited. Gas is primarily used for cooking and, to a lesser extent, heating during colder months.

Store gas cylinders in well-ventilated, secure areas away from heat or sunlight. Inspect cylinders and equipment regularly, and always use certified regulators and hoses to prevent accidents. Adhering to these practices ensures safe and efficient gas usage in your home.

Water

Water services in Zimbabwe are managed by local municipal authorities. For instance, the Harare City Council oversees water and sewage connections in the capital.

Water reliability varies significantly between urban and rural areas. Cities like Harare and Bulawayo often face challenges like ageing infrastructure and intermittent supply, while rural areas rely more on boreholes or wells. If it’s not present, consider budgeting for filtration or purification systems. Common purification methods include boiling, filtration units, and UV light purifiers.

During water shortages, both municipal and private companies provide delivery services. Local councils may prioritise high-density areas, while businesses like Glamour Rentals offer bulk water delivery to residences.

Bins and recycling

Waste management services are available in major cities like Harare and Bulawayo, with local municipalities handling collection. Recycling initiatives are still developing but are supported by private companies like WasteMate Zimbabwe. In Harare, some organisations offer door-to-door recycling collection. Confirm the waste collection schedule with your landlord or directly with the service provider.

Internet

Internet access in Zimbabwe is provided by companies such as Liquid Intelligent Technologies, TelOne, ZOL Zimbabwe, and Africom. Fibre-optic connections are available in urban areas, offering high-speed options for home use. Wireless broadband and ADSL are also common but may experience slower speeds, particularly during peak hours.

To set up an internet connection, you typically need a national ID or passport and proof of address. Make sure to arrange your internet connection as soon as possible, as lead times can vary from days to weeks.

Home security

Security is a significant concern, particularly in urban areas like Harare. Look for properties with burglar bars, security gates, and alarm systems. Gated communities often provide 24-hour security and controlled access, offering added peace of mind. Ensure any existing security systems are functional and discuss maintenance responsibilities with your landlord.

Effective security systems often include perimeter walls topped with electric fencing, motion-sensor lighting, and rapid-response alarm services.

Useful links

• ZESA, Zimbabwe Power Company, ZETDC
• Total Zimbabwe, Oryx Energies, Zuva Petroleum
• Harare City Council, Bulawayo City Council
• WasteMate Zimbabwe
• Liquid Intelligent Technologies, TelOne, ZOL Zimbabwe, Africom