Rent Control warns Landlords, hostel operators over rent cards

The directive requires landlords to issue rent cards to tenants and register or update information on their properties and tenancies with the Rent Control Department.

In a statement dated August 10, 2026, Acting Rent Commissioner Frederick Opoku said the measures were part of efforts to enforce the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220) and the Rent Control Law, 1986 (PNDCL 138).

The Department stressed that the issuance of rent cards was not a new requirement but a statutory obligation that landlords are expected to fulfil.

Under the law, landlords who rent out properties on a monthly or shorter-term basis are required to provide tenants with rent cards within seven days of the commencement of the tenancy.

The cards must contain details including the names and addresses of the landlord and tenant as well as the amount of rent payable.

The Department said that beginning August 17, 2026, landlords who seek services from Rent Control will be required to provide evidence that they have complied with the rent card requirement.

Applications from landlords who fail to demonstrate compliance could be declined or delayed.

Property owners and private hostel operators have also been given until November 30, 2026, to register their properties and update their tenancy information.

The directive extends to private hostels, with the requirements taking effect from the 2026/2027 academic year.

Hostel operators will be expected to issue rent cards to student tenants and maintain proper records of their accommodation arrangements.

The Rent Control Department said the move was intended to ensure that student accommodation operates within a transparent and accountable rental system.

It stressed that student housing, like other forms of rental accommodation, must be administered in accordance with the law.

The Department further cautioned landlords who fail to comply that they could face legal consequences and may also be restricted from pursuing complaints against tenants through the Rent Control system.

It said inspections and enforcement activities would be gradually intensified across the country, while landlords and property owners would be given reasonable opportunity to regularise their operations.

The Department urged all landlords, property owners and hostel operators to use the compliance period to register their properties, update tenancy records and ensure that rent cards are issued to tenants as required by law.