Rent Control Department to Inspect University Hostels Over High Fees and Alleged Exploitation
NUGS petition sparks nationwide inspections as authorities move to curb alleged hostel rent abuses in universities
- Rent Control Department to inspect university hostels over complaints of high fees and unfair rent practices
- Inspections begin May 6, 2026, starting with major Accra-based universities
- Authorities warn of sanctions, prosecution, and possible rent reductions if violations are confirmed
The Rent Control Department has announced a nationwide enforcement exercise aimed at hostel operators in Ghana’s tertiary institutions, following growing complaints of high accommodation fees, excessive advance rent demands, and alleged arbitrary price hikes.
The move follows a petition from the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) dated April 23, 2026, calling on authorities to step in and enforce the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220), amid rising concerns over the cost of student housing.
Speaking in an interview, Rent Commissioner Frederick Opoku said the nationwide inspections will begin on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, starting with selected universities in Accra, including the University of Ghana, the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), and Wisconsin International University College.
He explained that the exercise is intended to verify complaints from students and establish the true situation on the ground.
“At this stage, these are allegations, and we must confirm the facts. We are going in to engage both students and hostel operators to understand what is happening,” he stated.
Mr. Opoku noted that if investigations confirm overpricing or violations of tenancy regulations, the Department will take firm action, including summoning operators and imposing sanctions.
He further indicated that the Ministry of Education, led by Haruna Iddrisu, will be engaged to support broader interventions, including possible fee reductions where necessary.
“We will not hesitate to escalate the matter. If violations are confirmed, we will act decisively and ensure corrective measures are taken,” he added.
The Department has also warned hostel owners and landlords to comply with legal limits on advance rent payments, stressing that offenders risk prosecution under the Rent Act.
Beyond enforcement, officials say they will introduce standardised pricing guidelines, strengthen tenancy agreements, and set up a dedicated complaints system for students. A national stakeholder dialogue involving student bodies, universities, and property owners is also expected to be convened to address long-term reforms in the student housing sector.
Authorities have urged all hostel operators to regularise their activities, warning that ignorance of the law will not be accepted as a defence.
