Courage Cornelius Sonu, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Western Regional Rent Control Department, has stated that the department recorded a total of 428 cases in 2024.

Of these, 312 were settled amicably by the department, while 18 were referred to court for resolution, with 98 cases still pending.

According to him, there has been a decline in cases compared to 2023, when the department recorded 610 cases.

He noted that the reduction in cases could be attributed to a growing understanding of rent laws, as well as the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and property owners.

Mr. Sonu explained that some of the reported cases involved claims such as rent arrears, unlawful rent increases, recovery of possession, nuisance, and harassment, among others.

He stated: “The department aims to resolve cases amicably between parties, and only refers cases to court when both parties are dissatisfied with the department’s judgment.”

He encouraged landlords and tenants to always comply with the Rent Control Act to help maintain peace in their homes.