NHC reveals K780,000 rental arrears at Port Moresby flats

The National Housing Corporation [NHC] has issued a stern warning to tenants at a Port Moresby housing complex after uncovering K780,000 in unpaid rent, some of it accumulated over many years.

The arrears were revealed during a renovation and maintenance exercise at the Henao Drive flats in Five Mile, where NHC Managing Director Abel Tol confronted tenants over persistent non-payment despite repeated notices.

Tol said the outstanding rent represents a serious financial drain on the state housing agency and will no longer be ignored.

“All our records are known. We know exactly how much each tenant owes,” Tol told residents. “Some of this money has been outstanding for donkey years.”

The Henao Drive property consists of 10 blocks housing 40 units, and Tol said that tenants who fail to clear their arrears or cooperate with NHC could face eviction or other enforcement measures.

“I can evict you right now, but eviction is the last resort,” he said. “If you fail to comply after proper notice, then we will have no choice.”

Tol said NHC is not seeking to put families on the street, but urged corporation must enforce discipline to remain financially viable.

“We are cleaning up. We have given notices since February. When NHC comes to help you, you must cooperate,” he said.

The Managing Director said the ongoing renovation work is intended not only to improve living conditions but also to restore accountability among tenants who have failed to meet their rental obligations.

He appealed to residents to engage with NHC and settle their arrears, warning that continued non-compliance will trigger firm action by the state agency.