The Acting Rent Control Commissioner, Mr Frederick Opoku, has announced that the Rent Control Department now has the authority to access hostels and all properties in Ghana, emphasising that the law will be enforced after decades of dormancy.

Speaking to the media after an engagement with hostel operators at the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) headquarters in Accra on Thursday, July 2, 2026, Mr Opoku expressed satisfaction with the education provided to hostel operators.

He noted that many operators were previously unaware of the Department’s legal mandate, but significant progress has now been made in clarifying their responsibilities.

Mr Opoku explained that the Rent Control Department does not side with either tenants or landlords, stating that it will serve as a neutral body, ensuring fairness when disputes arise.

“When a case is brought before us, we invite both tenant and landlord to settle it fairly,” he stated.

He further clarified that when the Department assesses a property, landlords cannot arbitrarily increase rent without receiving a certificate of assessment.

“If you do not understand our access to your property, you can apply for judicial appeal. It is strictly a legal matter and nothing else,” Mr Opoku emphasised.

Highlighting the historical context, he revealed that the law had not been enforced for more than 60 years, leading many to assume it was no longer relevant.

However, he stressed that enforcement is now necessary, even though some operators may lack technical knowledge or feel bitter about the new measures.

“I want to put it on record that Rent Control needs to access all hostels and properties in Ghana,” he declared.

Mr Opoku assured stakeholders that the Department will collaborate closely with hostel operators and other partners to ensure the smooth implementation of the law.

“Rent Control Department will work with all stakeholders and hostel operators,” he concluded.