The Rent Control Department has cautioned landlords to desist from increasing their rent without authorisation.
Public Relations Officer of the Department Emmanuel Kporsu says landlords have no right to increase their rent without approval from the Rent Control.
He said the increase in fuel prices and other commodities are not a basis for them to increase rent.
He disclosed that per the Rent Law (Section 19) landlords are supposed to notify the Department of their intention to increase their rent.
After the notification, the Department would send their officers to assess and evacuate the property, and when satisfied, they would grant the request.
But was quick to add that, one would not be permitted if they have not renovated their property. The permission will only be granted if the landlords are able to show proof of renovation of the property. If you have not renovated the property, you will not be granted permission to increase the rent.”
He went on to explain that the Department is mandated by law to assess the property for a possible increase every two years hence when the request by a landlord to increase rent is rejected, they would have to wait for another two years to file another request.
He advised tenants to report their landlords to the Department if they have experienced such cases so the Rent Control will deal with them.
By: Rashid Obodai Provencal/Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
