The Rent Control Department has launched a nationwide compliance exercise targeting hostel operators near Ghana’s tertiary institutions over alleged exploitative pricing, arbitrary rent increases, and excessive advance rent demands.
The move follows a formal petition from the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) dated April 23, 2026, which called for urgent intervention to address unfair rent practices affecting students.
The Department said the exercise is aimed at enforcing the provisions of the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220), amid growing concerns from students about rising accommodation costs, especially in university communities where demand for hostels far outstrips supply.
In a statement issued on Monday, April 27, the Rent Control Department warned that landlords and hostel operators found violating tenancy regulations will face sanctions, including possible prosecution.
“The concerns raised—particularly on arbitrary pricing, excessive advance rent demands, and non-compliance with tenancy procedures—are of significant public interest and fall within the regulatory scope of the Rent Act,” the Department stated.
As part of the enforcement drive, the Department has outlined a nationwide inspection exercise focusing on hostel facilities in major tertiary education zones.
Officials have reminded landlords that the law places clear limits on the amount of advance rent that can be collected, warning that any breaches will attract sanctions, including prosecution under Act 220.
“Landlords and hostel operators are hereby reminded that the law restricts the collection of advance rent beyond permissible limits. Any violation will attract sanctions, including prosecution under Act 220,” the statement cautioned.
Beyond immediate enforcement, the Rent Control Department announced plans to develop standardised guidelines for hostel pricing and tenancy agreements. This will be done in consultation with key stakeholders, including student bodies, universities, and property owners.
A national stakeholder dialogue is also expected to be convened to agree on reforms that balance tenant protection with sustainable housing provision in tertiary communities.
Additionally, the Department will introduce a dedicated complaints mechanism to enable students to report rent-related abuses without fear of victimisation.
The Rent Control Department has urged all hostel operators and property managers to regularise their operations in line with the law, stressing that ignorance of the Rent Act will not be accepted as a defence.