Never pay rent to landlords without a rent card – Acting Rent Commissioner
The Acting Rent Commissioner, Frederick Opoku, has cautioned tenants across the country not to pay rent to any landlord who does not possess a valid rent card issued by the Rent Control Department.
Mr. Opoku on Kumasi-based Angel Fm monitored by MyNewsGh.com, explained that the rent card is a mandatory document designed to regulate landlord activities and ensure proper monitoring within the rental sector.
“Tenants should not pay rent to any landlord without a rent card because operating without one is illegal,” he stated.
He urged all landlords to visit the Rent Control Department to obtain the official document, stressing that the card is issued at a very affordable cost.
“All landlords should come to the Rent Control for the red card at a very affordable price. We take the money because we have to print them out for you; just some coins,” he explained.
Mr. Opoku added that the card contains security features that prevent duplication, making it an effective tool for regulating the housing rental system.
“It cannot be duplicated. It has distinct codes,” he noted.
According to him, a deadline has been set for compliance, and landlords are expected to secure the card within the stipulated period.
“By April 1, all landlords should have it,” he emphasised.
He also advised tenants to be vigilant and demand the rent card from their landlords before making any payments.
“To the tenants, if your landlord does not present any red document to you, you have the right not to pay rent,” he said.
Mr. Opoku further warned that landlords who fail to obtain the required rent card would be operating illegally and could face legal consequences.
“If the landlord does not have the rent card, it means the landlord is operating illegally, which could take you to prison for like six months or 200 penalty units,” he cautioned.
