6 months jail or GH¢3,000 fine for advance rent violations - Rent Control Chief warns landlords

Frederick Opoku, Acting Commissioner of the Rent Control Department, has warned that landlords or landladies who fail to follow rent control laws could face up to six months in prison.

He explained that courts can impose a fine of 250 penalty units as an alternative punishment, with each penalty unit valued at GH¢12; this amounts to GH¢3,000.

His remarks follow President John Dramani Mahama’s call on Tuesday for tenants across Ghana to report landlords demanding rent advances exceeding six months.

The President described such demands as a criminal offence under existing law.

President John Dramani Mahama made the remarks during a dialogue with organised labour at the Jubilee House on March 17, where housing affordability was discussed alongside wages and economic conditions.

Under the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220), as amended by PNDC Law 5, landlords cannot collect more than six months’ rent in advance for tenancies longer than six months. For shorter tenancies, the limit is two months.

Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, Mr Opoku noted that since taking office, operations have improved, and he is committed to making the Rent Control Department more relevant for Ghanaians.

He has therefore encouraged Ghanaians not to be intimidated but to ensure the law works by reporting any landlord who fails to comply.

“The country is governed by laws. The rent laws have been in existence for years, but their implementation has been a major problem. Nevertheless, it is high time we allowed the rent laws to take effect. According to the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220), as amended by PNDC Law 5, landlords are not permitted to collect more than six months’ rent in advance for tenancies exceeding six months. For shorter tenancies, the limit is two months. The President’s call for adherence to this law must be heeded. We can no longer tolerate such lawlessness. The law is not working effectively because some individuals either misunderstand it or are unaware of its existence,” he added.