In Ghana, the topic of rent advance is always a hot one. Some landlords ask for two years upfront. Some tenants struggle to afford it. Others don’t even know what the law says.
If you’re renting a house or managing one, understanding your rights and responsibilities is key. This post breaks down what the law says about rent advance in Ghana, what the Rent Control office does, and how the landlord-tenant law in Ghana protects both sides.
What is Rent Advance?
A rent advance is the money a tenant pays before moving into a rented property. It’s meant to cover future rent. In Ghana, this usually happens before signing the tenancy agreement.
Unlike some countries where rent is paid monthly, many landlords in Ghana ask for six months to two years in advance. But the thing is, it’s not always legal.
What Does The Law Say About Rent Advance in Ghana?
According to Ghana’s Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220): “A landlord must not demand more than six months’ rent advance from a tenant, whether for residential or commercial property.
That means asking for one or two years of rent in advance is against the law.
But in practice, many landlords still do it, especially in cities like Accra, Kumasi, and other major cities. Why? Because there’s high demand for housing, and tenants are desperate. Some pay more than they should just to secure a room or apartment.
What Happens If a Landlord Breaks the Rule?
It’s illegal, yes. But enforcement has been weak. However, the Rent Control Department of Ghana is working to change that. They encourage tenants to report landlords who demand more than six months’ rent advance.
What would possibly happen then is a mediation between landlord and tenant, a warning or fine for the landlord, and court action if the law is broken. So, as a tenant, you have the right to report to the nearest Rent Control office if you’ve been asked to pay more than six months and you want the law against that to apply.
What About Tenants Who Offer to Pay More?
Some tenants willingly offer to pay one or two years to convince landlords to choose them. This still goes against the law, even if both parties agree.
It puts pressure on other tenants and contributes to unfair rental practices. And, if things go wrong (like eviction or a dispute), the tenant might struggle to get their money back. So while it may feel like a quick solution, paying more than six months upfront creates more problems in the long run.
What Does Rent Control Do?
The Rent Control Department in Ghana protects both landlords and tenants. They mediate rental disputes, help enforce fair rent practices, and guide landlords and tenants on their rights.
They also help to determine reasonable rent based on location and property condition, and keep rent receipts and agreements on file if they are submitted. You can file a complaint, address your questions, or make requests to your local Rent Control office.
Landlord-Tenant Laws in Ghana
Eviction
A landlord must give reasonable notice—often not less than one month—before evicting a tenant. You can’t be kicked out suddenly or unfairly. Even if you owe rent, the landlord must go through Rent Control or the courts to evict you legally.
Rent Increases
Landlords are allowed to increase rent, but only fairly and reasonably. You can challenge high rent increases at the Rent Control office. They may conduct a rent assessment to determine if the new rate is fair based on the area, type of building, and condition.
Repairs and Maintenance
The landlord is responsible for major repairs such as roof leaks, electrical faults, and water systems. Tenants must keep the property clean and avoid damage. If something breaks due to normal wear and tear, the landlord must fix it.
Practical Tips for Landlords and Tenants
Whether you’re renting a single room or managing a whole apartment block, these tips can help you stay on the right side of the law:
For Tenants:
- Never pay more than six months in advance, no matter how nice the place looks.
- Always ask for a written agreement and a receipt.
- Visit the Rent Control office if your rights are being violated.
- Don’t delay rent without communicating, as it damages trust.
For Landlords:
- Stick to the six-month advance rule to avoid fines or legal trouble.
- Register your property with Rent Control.
- Provide written tenancy agreements and receipts.
- Handle complaints and repairs in a timely way.
Conclusion
The law on rent advance in Ghana is clear that landlords can’t legally ask for more than six months. But in reality, many people don’t follow this rule, mainly because of pressure, lack of awareness, or limited housing options.
That’s why knowing your rights under the landlord-tenant law in Ghana is so important. The Rent Control Department exists to protect both sides and make the rental process fair and transparent. If you’re unsure about a rent agreement, advance payment, or dispute, don’t stay silent. Get help. Visit Rent Control. Ask questions. Knowing the rules can save you from a lot of stress.