Report landlords who take more than 6 months' rent advance- President Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has called on tenants to report landlords who demand rent advances above the legal limit, saying the practice must be checked through stronger enforcement.

Speaking during a meeting with Organised Labour at Jubilee House on Tuesday, 17 March, he said the cost of housing has become a serious pressure point for many households and is taking up too much of workers’ income.

According to the President, the problem goes beyond rising rent levels and now includes unlawful advance payment demands, which he linked to the country’s housing shortfall.

He said some private property owners are taking advantage of the housing deficit to impose excessive charges on tenants.

Mr Mahama reminded the public that the law does not permit rent advances beyond six months, and urged tenants to make use of the rent court where landlords breach that rule.

He said both tenants and landlords often avoid that route, but stressed that people facing such demands should report them so the law can be enforced.

The President also renewed calls for a broader national conversation on housing, saying Ghana needs a coordinated approach involving government, labour and the private sector.

He said such a dialogue should help shape a social housing policy that can expand access to affordable accommodation for workers, whether through rental support or mortgage options.