The Rent Control Department has announced a nationwide compliance exercise targeting hostel operators across tertiary institutions, following allegations of exploitative pricing, arbitrary rent increases, and excessive advance rent demands.
The initiative follows a formal petition submitted on April 23, 2026, by the National Union of Ghana Students, urging strict enforcement of tenancy laws and improved protection for students facing rising accommodation costs.
According to the Department, the exercise is intended to enforce compliance with the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220), particularly in university communities where demand for accommodation continues to exceed supply.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Department indicated that violations of tenancy regulations will attract 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,” it stated.
As part of the enforcement measures, inspectors will be deployed nationwide to assess hostel facilities in major tertiary education zones. The exercise is aimed at ensuring adherence to lawful rent practices and preventing exploitation of students through inflated charges or unlawful advance payments.
The Department also reminded landlords that the law restricts the amount of advance rent that may be collected, warning that breaches will not be tolerated.
“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 enforcement, the Department said it will introduce standardised guidelines to regulate hostel pricing and tenancy agreements in consultation with stakeholders, including student groups, universities, and property owners.
A national stakeholder dialogue is also expected to be convened to develop reforms aimed at balancing tenant protection with sustainable housing provision in tertiary communities.
In addition, a dedicated complaints mechanism will be established to enable students to report rent-related abuses without fear of victimisation. The Department has urged all hostel operators to regularise their activities, stressing that ignorance of the law will not be accepted as a defence.
