Public members have proposed the introduction of a law to prohibit the sale of homes in informal settlements. This suggestion follows the Ministry of Housing and Community Development’s warning on social media, advising potential homebuyers to be extremely cautious about properties in informal settlements due to the lack of access to essential services such as electricity, water, and sanitation.
The ministry emphasized that purchasing homes in these areas can adversely affect people’s quality of life and health. Reports have emerged of homebuyers who, after paying significant amounts for properties, later found themselves without proof of ownership and facing eviction. One notable case involved an individual who bought a home in an informal area for $10,000 in cash but received no formal documentation. The original landowner later appeared, denying any knowledge of the transaction and demanding that the buyer leave the property.
In light of these issues, the ministry urged potential buyers to consider homes in established neighborhoods that are legally recognized, which provide better security, stability, and access to necessary services. While informal settlements may seem to offer more affordable housing, they often lack essential infrastructure and legal protections, posing significant risks of eviction and instability.
The ministry pointed out that in Fiji, informal settlements are usually located on land that is not legally owned or leased, making any property dealings highly precarious. Residents face the threat of eviction without notice, leading to potentially severe financial losses and displacement.