The Upper East Regional Manager of the Rent Control Department, Adam Yaminu Kasim, has reiterated that one of the pressing challenges facing tenants and landlords is the excessive advance payments demanded by landlords. Many tenants are reportedly struggling to cope with these high upfront payments, which often do not reflect the condition or value of the properties being rented. This mismatch between rental costs and property standards has become a recurring problem in the region and across the country.
“The most basic and common issue between tenants and landlords has to do with the rent. Many landlords want to take large sums in advance, which is obviously a big challenge for most tenants.”
Speaking in an interview on A1 Radio, he discussed the growing tensions and concerns around rent charges and the widespread disregard for rent regulations by some property owners.
Mr. Kasim emphasized the importance of involving the Rent Control Department early in the rental process, urging tenants to report any suspected irregularities or exploitative practices—especially when they encounter unusually high rent demands. However, he acknowledged that many tenants hesitate to approach the department.
“Mostly, what we urge tenants to do is, at least sometimes when you go to a place and inspect it, and the figure is a bit outrageous or too high, you can draw Rent Control’s attention.”
The Rent Control Act, which governs rental practices in Ghana, mandates landlords to register their rental properties before offering them to the public. This allows the department to assess and certify a fair rental value. However, many landlords bypass this requirement and only reach out to the department when disputes arise.
“As a landlord or landlady, under the act we are currently operating with—Act 220—even before you put up the premises, once you have the intention of renting it, you have to come and register it with Rent Control. That way, Rent Control is empowered to move in after construction is completed to carry out the assessment and issue a certificate for the appropriate rent.”
Mr. Kasim also addressed misconceptions about the role of the Rent Control Department, clarifying that it exists to serve both tenants and landlords. From offering advice to resolving disputes, the department is meant to be a neutral authority in rental matters. Unfortunately, with only five or six officers managing the entire region, resource limitations have hindered its ability to effectively educate the public and respond to issues.
“In fact, education is part of our mandate, but because of resource constraints, we are not able to deliver on that mandate.”
The regional manager encouraged the public not to wait until disputes escalate before seeking assistance. Instead, they should approach the Rent Control Department for guidance at the onset of any rental arrangement or issue.
“I’ll urge people—don’t wait until issues come up before you come to us. If you want to do something and you are not sure, come to us. We will advise you.”
He also reassured tenants that eviction processes are governed by law, and no landlord has the right to arbitrarily remove a tenant without following the proper legal procedure.
“There are laws guiding how a tenant should be evicted. A landlord or landlady cannot just get up and evict you.”
“I encourage all tenants who think they have issues with their landlords to be bold and come forward,” he added.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
