Tenants nationwide are urging Parliament to pass the Rent Bill 2022 before the 8th Parliament concludes its session.

The National Tenants Union of Ghana has voiced concerns about the exorbitant rent prices and the difficulties faced by local businesses and tenants due to demands for advance rent payments exceeding six months, which is forbidden under Section 25(5) of the Rent Act, 1963.

The Union criticized landlords for ignoring rent regulations and acting with impunity, while the Rent Control Department remains inactive.

They highlighted the growing challenges of conducting business in Ghana, pointing out unlawful additional charges known as ‘Goodwill’ for leasing properties for 10-15 years without providing receipts, which violates Section 25(5) of Act 220 (1963).

In key areas like Osu, Labone, Ridge, Airport, Spintex, and others in Accra, commercial tenants are reportedly being forced to pay illegal non-refundable charges (Goodwill) ranging from $45,000 to $70,000, further contravening the law.

The Rent Bill 2022, which aims to tackle these problems, was approved by the cabinet in November 2022 and subsequently sent to Parliament. In 2023, the bill was read for the first time and referred to the Housing Select Committee for further review. However, there has been no advancement for over 15 months.

As Parliament reconvenes today, June 11, 2024, the Union is appealing to legislators to prioritize and expedite the passage of the Rent Bill.

They are urging that it be passed and signed by the President before the 8th Parliament adjourns in December 2024, warning that failure to do so would require restarting the entire process.