The Rent Commissioner of Ghana, Frederick Opoku, says landlords have the legal right to evict tenants who fail to pay rent for one month.
Speaking on Ghana Nie on Atinka TV hosted by Ama Gyenfa Ofosu-Darkwa and Ekow Budu Sam, Mr. Opoku said many people do not respect Ghana’s rent laws, adding that “laws are not working in Ghana.”
According to him, every landlord is required by law to register tenancy agreements within two weeks. He also stated that landlords cannot charge more than six months’ rent advance.
Mr. Opoku explained that rent increases can be allowed, especially when a property has been renovated or when inflation affects the economy.
He further revealed that the Rent Control Department is working to regulate housing agents under the Real Estate Agency Act. He warned that unregistered agents would soon face strict action, stressing that agents are not allowed to charge more than five percent as agency fees.
The Rent Commissioner also expressed concern about Ghana’s housing deficit, saying the country needs about 200,000 housing units, while the deficit increases by about 150,000 every year.
On student hostels, Mr. Opoku disclosed that some facilities are operating without registration and warned that authorities would soon clamp down on them.
He also cautioned landlords against unlawful evictions, stating that the Ghana Police Service does not carry out evictions without due process and that landlords who force tenants out illegally could face jail terms.
Mr. Opoku said government is determined to ensure that housing laws are respected, insisting that no one is above the law.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu