“No hostel operator has the sole right to increase hostel fees” – Rent Control Commission warns

The Acting Rent Commissioner, Mr. Frederick Opoku, has emphasized that private hostel operators in Ghana are required to obtain approval from the Rent Control Department prior to increasing accommodation fees.

He stated that any unilateral adjustments to hostel charges made outside of regulatory oversight are unacceptable and contravene established rental regulations.

Mr. Opoku made these remarks during an interview on the Home Owner Show on Metro TV, hosted by Hanna Atiase, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, where concerns regarding rising hostel fees across tertiary institutions were discussed.

He described the current pricing of some private hostels as excessive and "mind-boggling," particularly given the limited accommodation options available to students.

According to Mr. Opoku, his office has received a petition from the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) and is treating the matter with urgency in collaboration with relevant state institutions.

He noted that the government, through the Rent Control Department and the Presidency, is actively reviewing accommodation pricing structures within the tertiary education space as part of broader reforms under the "resetting agenda."

Mr. Opoku stressed that Ghana operates under the rule of law, and all property and hostel operators are expected to comply with regulatory frameworks governing rent and accommodation charges.

He further cautioned hostel operators against exploiting students, emphasizing that fairness and accountability must guide pricing decisions in the sector.

He assured the public that measures are being implemented to ensure fair equity across the rental system, particularly in student accommodation nationwide.

Source: Metronewsroom