KINGSTON, Jamaica— The Rent Assessment Board says it is strengthening the working relationships with key stakeholders such as the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Social Development Commission (SDC) to resolve rental disputes across Jamaica.

The agency, which operates under the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation (MEGJC), said in a press release on Wednesday, that it has been visiting police stations islandwide to educate security personnel on how to handle landlord-tenant situations.

“We have been making presentations at police stations islandwide to inform the police about the Rent Assessment Board and how to assist the landlords and tenants who visit the stations. So, it has been a mutually beneficial relationship”, Director of the Rent Services Unit in the MEGJC, Shenese Williams-Headlam, said.

She highlighted the SDC’s partnership with the Rent Assessment Board as instrumental, considering that the commission works with approximately 77 communities.

“We will be partnering with the Social Development Commission to aggressively fulfil the mandate of the board to serve the public, especially those who don’t know about the Rent Assessment Board. For example, in rural areas, we want to go to them and see how we can assist them with their rental matters. So, the SDC will be disseminating information on behalf of the board, and we will be participating in the SDC community outreach programmes,” she said.

The Rent Assessment Board helps landlords and tenants resolve rental disputes by acting as a mediator and educating both parties on the provisions of the Rent Restriction Act. The Rent Services Unit serves as the Rent Assessment Board ‘s Secretariat, providing reports on all rental matters to the board.

Williams-Headlam further highlighted the board’s commitment to mediating conflicts and educating citizens about their rights.

“Many Jamaicans are unable to own their own homes, so renting is a viable housing solution. Unfortunately, misunderstandings and disputes often arise, stemming from issues such as the lack of written contracts and non-compliance with agreements. We assist landlords and tenants in understanding their rights and responsibilities, aiming to settle disputes amicably and legally,” she said.

The Rent Assessment Board said in 2023 it assisted over 18,270 clients through in-office and electronic communication. Additionally, 261 clients sought assistance regarding standard rent for their properties, while 117 individuals requested exemptions from the Rent Restriction Act. There were 21 outreach activities done islandwide and RAB held 228 judicial hearings.