In Ghana, tenants often pay advance rent and sometimes a separate security deposit. Getting money back at move-out is a top conflict topic in Accra and Kumasi — see rent budgeting.
Paper Trail That Helps
| Keep | Why |
|---|---|
| Written tenancy agreement | Terms for refunds & deductions |
| Payment receipts / MoMo proofs | Shows what you paid |
| Move-in photos/videos | Baseline for damage claims |
| Notice to quit / messages | Shows you gave notice |
Verbal-only deals are harder to enforce when friendships sour.
At Move-Out
- Request a joint inspection if possible
- Return keys formally (message + witness if needed)
- Ask for an itemised deduction list before accepting a partial refund
- Compare deductions to normal wear vs real damage
Related: Landlord–tenant basics · Affidavit.
FAQ
Landlord ghosting after you leave?
Document attempts to contact; ask a lawyer or legal aid options about next steps for your amount and location.
“I’II refund after the next tenant pays”?
Push for a written timeline. Your contract terms matter more than the landlord’s cashflow story.
Sources / Verify With
- Your signed tenancy agreement
- Qualified lawyer / rent control or relevant local dispute avenues where applicable
Original Sen Gideons News Studio editorial. Not legal advice.