ZIEA NABBS 60 AGENTS ON VIEWING FEE

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Posted by admin on November 19, 2025 at 4:55 AM

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The Zambia Institute of Estate Agents (ZIEA) has reaffirmed its commitment to ending the widespread practice of illegal viewing fees, warning that the vice continues to undermine professionalism in the real estate sector.

“Viewing fee” refers to the practice of charging prospective tenants simply to view properties, regardless of whether they decide to rent or not.

ZIEA Registrar Ettah Hantumbu Kasonso disclosed that 60 illegal agents have been arrested since the crackdown began, signalling the institute’s determination to restore order in the industry.

Ms Kasonso explained that while ZIEA has successfully registered 1,300 members and 300 certified agents, this number remains small compared to the thousands of individuals operating across the country, many of whom are unregulated.

Ms Kasonso highlighted several challenges facing ZIEA in clamping down on the vice Low compliance among agents who resist registration and certification, Proliferation of informal operators exploiting unsuspecting tenants and Limited enforcement capacity compared to the scale of illegal activity

She urged tenants to demand transparency and report agents charging viewing fees, while encouraging practitioners to regularise their operations through ZIEA.

“Our mission is to protect the public and uphold professional standards. Viewing fees are illegal, and we will continue to act against those who exploit tenants,” Kasonso said.