Principal Rent Manager at the Rent Control Department, Ishmael Essien, has defended the relevance and efficiency of the institution, describing it as a well-structured system capable of protecting tenants and landlords alike, if given the needed political support.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Essien maintained that Ghana’s rent laws remain among the most comprehensive in the country.
However, he said their full potential has been undermined by inadequate government attention and limited enforcement.
“Rent Control is still a relevant body. The law that protects rent in this country is one of the most effective. If we go strictly by the provisions in the law, then we have one of the perfect systems in Ghana,” he asserted.
He explained that the Rent Control Department has the mandate to regulate tenancy agreements and ensure fairness between landlords and tenants. But to function effectively, the institution needs stronger political backing.
“The law gives us the authority to act, but we must also look at the people at the top. What we need now is political will,” he stressed.
Mr. Essien further highlighted that the Rent Act clearly states that tenants are expected to pay rent monthly, and in cases where they intend to stay longer, they are permitted to pay up to six months in advance.
“If we focus on implementing this law fully, we can solve many of the rent challenges in the country,” he added.
He assured Ghanaians that Rent Control continues to do its best to maintain order in the housing sector, calling on the government and the public to support their efforts in ensuring compliance with rent laws.
Source: Gertrude Otchere
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