Rent Increases and Late Fees in Focus as Antigua and Barbuda Opens Public Consultations
The first session is scheduled for Thursday at Parliament as the government seeks public input on rental reform and stronger protections for older persons.
Antigua and Barbuda will begin public consultations on two proposed bills covering residential rentals and the care and protection of older persons. The first session is scheduled for Thursday, November 12, at 9:30 a.m. at the Parliament Building.
The Ministry of Legal Affairs, led by the Attorney General, is inviting landlords, tenants, real estate professionals, legal practitioners and other interested residents to attend the opening session and share their experiences.
The proposed Landlord and Tenant (Residential Tenancies) Bill 2026 follows concerns raised by landlords and tenants about rent increases, late-payment charges, unpaid rent and outstanding utility bills. It also seeks to clarify the responsibilities of both parties under rental agreements.
Cabinet said the existing framework, which includes the Small Tenements Act and the Rent Restriction Act, needs updating to reflect conditions in today’s rental market. The consultation will give participants an opportunity to explain where the current rules fall short and suggest changes.
The proposed Older Persons (Care and Protection) Bill 2026 seeks to strengthen safeguards against abuse, neglect and inadequate care, particularly for people who may be unable to care for or protect themselves. The government is inviting older persons, families, caregivers, healthcare and social service professionals, residential care providers and advocacy groups to contribute to that consultation.
The Ministry of Legal Affairs will use the feedback to review and refine both bills before they advance through the legislative process.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/11/12/rent-increases-and-late-fees-in-focus-as-antigua-and-barbuda-opens-public-consultations. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
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