Ghana’s eviction laws provide robust protection for tenants, yet many renters remain unaware of their fundamental rights when facing housing disputes. With Ghana’s rental market experiencing rapid growth and the recent digital transformation of the Rent Control Department, understanding your legal protections has never been more critical.
Legal framework protecting your tenancy
The Rent Act 1963 (Act 220) and the Rent Control Law 1986 establish clear boundaries for landlord actions. Section 17 of the Rent Act fundamentally prohibits arbitrary evictions, requiring landlords to satisfy specific legal conditions before any court grants eviction orders.
Valid eviction grounds include non-payment of rent with a minimum one-month written notice, breach of lease terms, property damage beyond normal wear, illegal activities, or genuine landlord personal use requiring six months’ notice. Importantly, rent increases alone cannot justify eviction unless properly assessed by the Rent Control Department.
The widespread practice of demanding 2-3 years’ advance rent violates statutory limits of six months for longer tenancies and two months for short-term rentals.
Your Rent Control Department, Ghana, protects
Every tenant deserves due process. The Rent Control Department serves as your primary defence against illegal evictions and rental exploitation. Following the comprehensive digitalisation launched in September 2024, the Department now offers enhanced accessibility through its online platform, providing 24/7 access to complaint filing and dispute resolution services.
No court can grant eviction orders without landlords first following proper procedures through the Department. This mandatory process includes mediation services designed to resolve disputes before expensive court proceedings, often maintaining tenancy relationships while ensuring legal compliance.
Self-help evictions constitute criminal offences. Landlords who change locks, remove belongings, or cut utilities face fines up to 200 penalty units or six months imprisonment. Document such attempts immediately and report them to the police and the Rent Control Department at 0302 670 406.
Responding to eviction notices strategically
Time management determines success. You have exactly two months from receiving notice to contest eviction through the Rent Control Department. Missing this deadline severely weakens your legal position.
Immediate actions within 48 hours:
- Photograph the notice documenting the delivery date
- Compare claimed grounds against lease agreements and payment history
- Contact the Rent Control Department for guidance
- Verify proper notice periods were followed
Within two weeks:
- File Form 7 with supporting documentation and filing fee
- Gather evidence, including rent receipts, lease agreements, and witness statements
- Continue paying rent if current to demonstrate good faith
Throughout proceedings:
- Maintain detailed interaction records
- Attend all scheduled hearings and mediation sessions
- Consider legal representation through the Legal Aid Commission
Comprehensive tenant protection rights
Privacy rights prevent landlord harassment. Landlords must provide reasonable notice before property entry except during genuine emergencies. Violations can be reported to rent magistrates for enforcement action.
Financial protections limit exploitation. If you’ve paid excessive advance rent, this doesn’t create additional legal obligations. The law protects you regardless of common market practices violating statutory requirements.
Appeal rights provide additional safeguards. Unfavourable initial decisions can be appealed within seven days to higher courts, offering multiple opportunities to present your case against improper eviction attempts.
Current reforms are strengthening protections
Legislative momentum builds for comprehensive reform through the pending Rent Bill, proposing transformation of the Rent Control Department into a Ghana Rent Authority with enhanced enforcement powers. Monthly payment systems would replace advance payment structures, creating financial barriers.
President Mahama’s 2025 reform agenda prioritises rental law enforcement and affordable housing initiatives, reflecting growing recognition that housing security supports economic development.
Eden Heights: Exemplifying professional standards
At Eden Heights, we demonstrate how professional property management supports both tenant protection and sustainable rental relationships. Our commitment to legal compliance means residents enjoy security of tenure under proper legal frameworks.
Located strategically behind West Hills Mall in Accra, Eden Heights offers luxury residential living with transparent practices. We provide clear written agreements, proper documentation as legally required, and maintain open communication about tenancy matters. Our comprehensive services include 24-hour security, on-site facility management, and professional maintenance.
Should tenancy issues arise, Eden Heights follows all legal procedures through the Rent Control Department, ensuring residents receive full due process protections. We view tenant education and legal compliance as essential to creating positive residential communities.
Experience secure, legally compliant luxury living. Contact Eden Heights today to explore our available premium apartments, from spacious two-bedroom units to elegant penthouses, all managed with the highest standards of legal and ethical responsibility in Ghana’s evolving rental market landscape.
