The Ministry of Finance and Treasury has launched a renewed audit initiative, placing particular emphasis on rental income—not just whether it's declared, but how it is paid.
Tenants across the country have begun receiving notices from the tax office, asking them to verify the method of their rent payments. The goal is to promote payment transparency, ensure proper tax collection, and curb unreported (“black”) income from landlords renting out properties.
Recent reports indicate a sharp increase in inspections of residential buildings, apartment complexes, and units where rental income may not have been declared. In just the past few months, around 4.5 million properties have been audited.
These so-called “letters of happiness” sent to tenants are generally routine. If the lease has been properly documented, rent is paid via bank transfer, and a formal agreement exists, tenants have nothing to worry about. The tax office typically requests the lease contract, bank receipts for payments, and agent details if the property was not rented directly from the owner.
This process can also serve as an opportunity for tenants to raise any financial concerns with their landlords or clarify points of contact if needed.
Since the introduction of a mandatory mediation system, disputes around rental agreements have significantly declined. Most complaints in the housing sector today focus on excessive rent prices rather than legal or procedural issues.