National Tenants’ Union Demands Tougher Rent Laws to Protect Tenants”

The issue of high rent charges and long advance payments continues to trouble many households across the country. As pressure mounts on tenants, the National Tenants’ Union of Ghana is urging the Rent Control Department to step up its role in protecting renters from unfair practices by landlords and agents.

With an ongoing review of the Rent Act, the Union says this is the right time to close the gaps in the law and give tenants real protection. According to Frederick Opoku, General Secretary of the Union, the Department should go beyond merely settling disputes and focus on preventive measures. He suggested the introduction of a “vacancy register” that would help reduce the exploitation of tenants.

On the other hand, some landlords argue that not all property owners demand excessive advances. Real estate developer Emmanuel Attu explained that many of his tenants prefer flexible arrangements, such as six-month renewals or one-year leases with renewal options, which remain within the current legal framework.

The Rent Control Department itself admits that the law has loopholes. While landlords are not supposed to demand more than six months’ advance, tenants are free to offer more—and landlords can legally accept it. Emmanuel Kporsu, the Department’s PRO, described this as a “lacuna” in the Act and confirmed that the review process is aimed at tightening the law to make both demands and acceptance of excess advances punishable.

Beyond legal gaps, the Department is also battling serious logistical challenges. Out of its 58 offices nationwide, only two vehicles are available for inspections and investigations, a situation officials say makes enforcement nearly impossible.

Meanwhile, the Tenants’ Union is calling on government to go a step further by transforming the Rent Control Department into a Rent Authority with stronger powers and resources. Mr. Opoku emphasized that housing is a basic need and urged leadership to prioritize reforms that will ease the burden on tenants and address the wider housing deficit.



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