The Western Regional Assistant Chief Executive Officer of the Rent Control Department, Courage Cornelius Sonu, has raised concerns over persistent challenges in Ghana’s housing and rental sector, attributing many of the issues to the absence of a comprehensive rent register.
According to Mr. Sonu, the lack of a properly structured and maintained rent register has significantly weakened efforts to regulate and sanitize the rental space across the country. He noted that such a register would serve as a critical database, capturing essential details of rental transactions, agreements, and engagements between landlords and tenants.
Speaking on Morning Light Show, Mr. Sonu explained that the availability of accurate and up-to-date rental data would greatly enhance the department’s ability to formulate informed policies and enforce existing regulations effectively. He emphasized that without reliable records, it becomes difficult to monitor compliance, address disputes, and implement reforms that reflect the realities of the housing market.
“The rent register would have provided a clear picture of rental trends and practices in the country. It would also guide decision-making and help bring sanity into the system,” he stated.
Mr. Sonu further highlighted that the Rent Control Department continues to face logistical and operational constraints, including limited office presence in several parts of the country. He stressed that expanding the department’s infrastructure and ensuring adequate resourcing are key to strengthening enforcement mechanisms.
He pointed out that with the necessary support, the department would be better positioned to enforce the six-month rent advance policy, which has long been a contentious issue between landlords and tenants. Despite existing regulations, many landlords continue to demand rent advances far beyond the legally prescribed limit.
Mr. Sonu expressed optimism that with improved institutional capacity, including nationwide office coverage and digital systems such as a rent register, the department can restore order and fairness in the rental market.
He called on government and relevant stakeholders to prioritize investment in the Rent Control Department, noting that a well-regulated housing sector is essential for protecting tenants’ rights and ensuring equitable access to accommodation.
The concerns come amid growing public frustration over rising rent costs and the difficulty many Ghanaians face in securing affordable housing under fair conditions.
