This archive report was first published on 7 May 2020.
On May 7, 2020, the Council of Governors (CoG) urged the National Treasury to waive taxes on rental income during the pandemic period. This move aims to benefit landlords who have given rental relief to tenants.
CoG Deputy Chairman Mwangi wa Iria emphasized that landlords should be protected from the challenges facing the sector, including Covid-19 and flooding. He suggested that a tax reduction or waiver on rental incomes would enable landlords to extend a waiver of at least 30 per cent on rental rates.
Wa Iria also called on financial institutions to be genuine in offering credit concessions to landlords, noting that their predatory behavior is exacerbating the situation. He urged landlords to relate well with their tenants, particularly low-income earners during the pandemic period.
CoG is keenly following the situation in counties and will implement rules that benefit both landlords and the tenants. Wa Iria stated that the council is offering rebates on water and land rates, as well as business permits, to help alleviate the burden on landlords and tenants.
