Ghana Rent Control Department has announced stricter enforcement of rent-card, tenancy registration and property documentation requirements for landlords, property owners and hostel operators.
In a statement signed by the Acting Rent Commissioner, Frederick Opoku, the Department said the measures form part of efforts to strengthen compliance with Ghana’s rent laws while promoting transparency, accountability and tenant protection.
The Commission said that from August 17, 2026, landlords or property owners seeking services from the Rent Control Department will, where applicable, be required to demonstrate compliance with the statutory rent-card requirement.
It warned that landlords unable to provide satisfactory evidence of issuing and maintaining the required rent cards could have their applications for relevant services deferred or declined, subject to the applicable law and administrative procedures.
The Department also reminded landlords that the issuance of rent cards is a statutory obligation and not a new administrative requirement.
It further directed landlords and owners of rental properties to regularise their property and tenancy information with the Department in accordance with the law.
The Department said it would intensify enforcement of these requirements as part of efforts to establish a credible national rental information system and improve transparency in the rental sector.
The Rent Control Department said hostel operators providing residential accommodation to students will also be required to comply with applicable rent-control laws.
Beginning with the 2026/2027 academic year, qualifying hostel operators will be required to issue prescribed rent cards to student tenants and comply with relevant registration and rent-control requirements.
They will also be required to maintain records on tenants, rent payable, accommodation details and the duration of tenancies.
The Department said it will collaborate with tertiary institutions, student representative bodies, hostel associations and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to full compliance.
It stressed that student accommodation must operate within a transparent and lawful rental framework that protects both property owners and tenants.
