SPHYNX · Renting Guide
Renting property in Accra – a practical guide
This guide explains how renting property in Accra usually works – from deposits and service charges to areas, documentation and how SPHYNX supports tenants and occupiers.
- What to budget for beyond monthly rent
- How deposits, agreements and inventories are handled
- Where SPHYNX adds structure and calm to the process
Who this guide is for
A simple, grounded overview if you are considering renting in Accra in the next 6–18 months.
Individuals & families
Tenants looking for homes in gated communities or well-managed blocks, with predictable costs and clear rules.
Corporate tenants
Companies and institutions housing staff or guests in Accra, often needing documented leases and service expectations.
Returning Ghanaians & expatriates
Tenants arriving or returning from abroad, sometimes renting before an eventual purchase or relocation.
Key renting costs in Accra
Beyond the headline rent, there are several practical costs to understand and plan for.
Deposits & advance
Many landlords request a security deposit (often one month’s rent) and at least the first month payable in advance.
For higher-value homes or corporate lets, the structure can differ and should be clearly documented.
Service charges & utilities
In gated communities and serviced apartments, monthly or quarterly service charges cover security, common power, waste and estate upkeep.
Tenants usually pay private electricity, water and internet directly or through the estate.
Other costs to consider
Budget for move-in works, furnishings, small repairs and any one-off fees set by the landlord, agent or estate.
SPHYNX can help outline expected costs before you commit.
Where to rent & property types
Area and building profile shape your experience as much as the four walls of a particular apartment or house.
Common areas for tenants
Many long-term tenants and corporates choose Cantonments, Airport Residential, Airport Hills, Labone, East Legon (Shiashie), Ridge, Roman Ridge and East Airport.
These areas balance access to schools, embassies, work hubs and services.
For a closer look at estates, explore the Gated Communities in Accra guide and the Gated Communities Directory.
Property types tenants often choose
Options include furnished and unfurnished apartments, serviced apartments, townhomes, duplexes and occasionally standalone houses in gated cul-de-sacs.
Short-let and long-let arrangements operate differently; always confirm minimum stays and house rules.
Documentation, rules & inventories
A calm tenancy usually rests on clear agreements and records, not just verbal assurances.
Tenancy agreements
A written tenancy agreement sets out parties, term, rent, deposit handling, notice periods and responsibilities for repairs and utilities.
Where appropriate, tenants may want a lawyer to review this for clarity and compliance.
Inventories & estate rules
Inventories record the condition of the property and contents at move-in. They support a fair approach when you eventually move out.
Estate rules may cover noise, pets, alterations, parking and short-lets. Ask for a copy before committing.
How SPHYNX supports tenants & occupiers
Focused support for tenants who value clarity, documentation and well-managed homes.
Search, shortlists & viewings
SPHYNX can help refine your brief, propose suitable homes, organise viewings and highlight practical considerations around estates, access and management.
Learn more at tenant & occupier services .
Leases, renewals & move-in
For selected tenancies, SPHYNX can support negotiations, renewals and the practical steps around move-in, working alongside property management where relevant.
For landlords and estates, see property management services .
Ready to talk about renting in Accra?
A short conversation can clarify areas, budgets and which service stream fits your situation.
Renting property in Accra – FAQs
Short answers to common questions that come up when tenants first enquire.
How much deposit do I need to rent in Accra? +
Many landlords request a security deposit of around one month’s rent, plus at least the first month in advance. Terms can vary with property type, price point and landlord preferences and should be written into the agreement.
Who pays agency commission when renting? +
In many structured lets the landlord or property owner covers standard agency fees, but arrangements can differ. SPHYNX is clear about any fees that apply to tenants before work proceeds.
What should be included in my tenancy agreement? +
A good tenancy agreement outlines parties, property, rent, deposit, term, notice, repair responsibilities and how service charges and utilities are handled. It should be signed by both parties and accompanied by an inventory where relevant.
How far in advance should I start looking for a rental? +
For most tenants, starting 4–10 weeks before your ideal move date is a reasonable window. Corporate relocations or school-linked moves may benefit from slightly more lead time and a staged viewing plan.