Rent Control to introduce standard tenancy agreement by November 2026
The Rent Control Department is set to introduce a standardised tenancy agreement by November 2026 as part of efforts to protect tenants from illegal charges and restrictive housing rules.
Acting Rent Commissioner, Frederick Opoku, said the initiative forms part of a broader reform agenda aimed at sanitising the country’s rental sector.
Speaking on Starr FM on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, he explained that the move is intended to replace what he described as “outrageous” and arbitrary tenancy agreements often drafted by landlords, some of which violate tenants’ constitutional rights.
Mr. Opoku noted that many landlords exploit the housing deficit to impose unfair terms on tenants, particularly after rent payments have already been made.
He added that the new framework will also address common abuses in the rental market, including illegal curfews imposed by some landlords.
“You find clauses in agreements stating that tenants cannot return home after 10:00 PM. This is unacceptable. The Constitution of Ghana does not permit anyone to restrict another person’s movement,” he said.
The Acting Commissioner stressed that the department is engaging key stakeholders—including landlords, tenants, and real estate professionals—to ensure the new tenancy agreement is fair and balanced.
He further reiterated that under Section 25(5) of the Rent Act, it is illegal for landlords to demand more than six months’ rent in advance.
However, he acknowledged that the housing shortage has created a system where tenants feel compelled to pay between two and five years’ rent upfront to secure accommodation.
Mr. Opoku also disclosed that he inherited an institution that was under-resourced and largely incapacitated.
He emphasised the need for gradual reforms, noting that rent assessment by the department must become a standard requirement before landlords can increase rent charges.
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