Accra: The Rent Control Department is set to introduce a standardized tenancy agreement by November 2026 to protect tenants from illegal charges and restrictive housing rules.
According to Ghana Web, Acting Rent Commissioner Frederick Opoku, this initiative is part of a broader reform agenda aimed at sanitizing the country's rental space.
The Acting Commissioner mentioned on Starr FM on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, that the initiative also aims to replace 'outrageous' and arbitrary agreements currently drafted by landlords, which often violate the constitutional rights of tenants. He explained that many landlords exploit the housing deficit to force tenants into lopsided agreements after they have already paid their rent.
Commissioner Opoku further highlighted that the commission will address several common abuses in the current market, specifically targeting landlords who impose illegal curfews. He criticized clauses in agreements that restrict tenants' movements, such as prohibiting entry after certain hours, which he noted are unconstitutional.
The Commissioner outlined steps toward implementing these new standards, emphasizing that the department is not imposing measures unilaterally but seeking input from landlords, tenants, and real estate professionals to ensure fairness. Additionally, he reiterated the legal stipulation under Section 25(5) of the Rent Act that prohibits landlords from demanding more than six months of rent in advance.
Despite this regulation, Opoku acknowledged that the current shortage of available property has led to a culture of fear, where tenants are compelled to pay years' worth of advance payments to secure housing. He admitted that he inherited an 'ill-resourced' and 'incapacitated' institution but insisted on addressing these issues gradually, emphasizing the need for rent assessment by the department as a standard prerequisite before landlords can increase charges.