The Acting Rent Control Commissioner, Frederick Opoku, has issued a strong warning to unlicensed real estate agents operating in Ghana, declaring that the authorities are prepared to take action against those who continue to operate outside the law.
Mr Opoku’s warning is directed particularly at what are commonly described as “quack agents” — individuals who facilitate rental transactions without the required authorisation and, in some cases, impose charges that are not permitted under Ghana’s rent laws.
The Rent Control Department has been increasing its focus on activities within the rental sector as concerns continue to grow over the treatment of tenants and the conduct of some property agents.
According to the Acting Rent Commissioner, unauthorised agents should no longer assume that they can continue operating without scrutiny. He urged those involved in the business to regularise their operations and comply with the requirements governing rental transactions.
The warning comes amid persistent complaints from tenants about excessive charges and other practices associated with the search for accommodation.
One area of concern is the payment of commissions by tenants. Mr Opoku has previously explained that under Ghana’s rent law, the approved commission for an agent is five per cent, and the responsibility for paying the commission rests with the landlord rather than the tenant. Agents who demand additional or unauthorised commissions could face consequences under the law.
The Rent Control Department has also encouraged members of the public to report agents who engage in unlawful practices. Such reports can help authorities identify individuals operating outside the regulatory framework and take appropriate action.
The issue of unlicensed agents has become particularly important because prospective tenants often rely on intermediaries when searching for accommodation. Unscrupulous agents can allegedly exploit this situation by demanding money from people before they have secured a property or by imposing charges beyond what is legally permitted.
Mr Opoku’s latest warning therefore signals a stronger approach toward bringing greater accountability to the rental market.
The Rent Control Department’s efforts form part of a broader push to educate landlords, tenants and property agents about their rights and responsibilities under Ghana’s rent laws. Authorities have maintained that better knowledge of the law can help reduce disputes and prevent exploitation within the housing sector.
Tenants are also being encouraged to be cautious when dealing with individuals who claim to represent landlords or property owners. Verifying the legitimacy of an agent and understanding the applicable charges can help reduce the risk of falling victim to fraudulent or illegal practices.
For property agents, the message from the Rent Control Department is clear: operating within the law is becoming increasingly important as authorities intensify monitoring and enforcement.
Mr Opoku’s “your time is up” warning is therefore expected to put additional pressure on unlicensed agents to regularise their activities or risk facing action.
The development comes at a time when access to affordable accommodation remains a major concern for many Ghanaians. Ensuring that rental transactions are properly regulated could help create a fairer environment for both tenants and landlords.
The Rent Control Department is expected to continue its education and enforcement efforts as it works to improve compliance across the rental sector.
@rentcontroldepartmentghUNREGULATED AGENTS YOUR TIME IS UP! LANDLORDS TAKE BEWARE OF QUACK AGENTS
Source: Thepressradio.com
