Public members have proposed the introduction of legislation to prevent the sale of homes in informal settlements. These recommendations followed a statement from the Ministry of Housing and Community Development on social media, which advised potential buyers to be extremely cautious when considering properties in informal areas due to their frequent lack of essential services like electricity, water, and sanitation.
The ministry highlighted that purchasing homes in such locations could seriously affect the residents’ health and quality of life. The statement noted, “Many reports have emerged of buyers who have invested large sums for properties in these areas, only to later find themselves denied ownership and facing eviction.”
One instance cited was of an individual, referred to as Person A, who recently bought a house in an informal settlement for $10,000 in cash. Although the payment was made in full, Person A did not receive any formal ownership documents. To their shock, the original landowner returned, claiming ignorance of the sale and demanding that Person A leave the property.
In light of this, the ministry urged prospective homeowners to focus on properties in established and legally recognized neighborhoods that provide better security, stability, and access to necessary services. “While these informal settlements may present cheaper housing options, they often lack crucial infrastructure, legal safeguards, and are at high risk of eviction,” the statement continued.
It was emphasized that informal settlements in Fiji are frequently situated on land that is not legally owned or leased, making property transactions there highly precarious. Residents in these areas may face eviction at any moment without warning, exposing them to severe financial losses and the risk of displacement.