Thirty-six families who were offered Public Rental Board (PRB) flats in Lagilagi in January are still waiting to move in.

PRB general manager Timoci Naleba confirmed the delay, explaining that some tenants submitted outdated documents that required additional checks before they could be granted ownership.

He emphasised that due diligence was necessary to avoid disputes among tenants, particularly with long-term residents of Lagilagi.

“We don’t want to give flats to those who have recently moved in,” Mr Naleba stated.

“We want to ensure they go to those who have been residing there for over 10 years.”

He said the verification process was now complete, and PRB was going to meet with the families for a thorough induction exercise to explain the “strata title ownership” model.

Mr Naleba explained that strata ownership was different from standard property ownership.

“The flat will be theirs, but it will be under a strata title, meaning PRB will maintain common areas, while tenants will be responsible for the interior of their units.”

The induction session will cover key responsibilities, including repairs and maintenance, shared spaces, interior repairs, fees and financial commitments and more.

“By the end of this month, most of them should be moving in depending on the documents that they have and the capability, financial capability. On the hand also, that they have been offered these homes, they will have to also display financial capability in terms of owning, paying for the flats.”

Mr Naleba said families intending to move in will depend on the completion of their documentation and financial assessments.