The Water Resources, Works, and Housing Ministry is finalising the Rent Bill that will make it illegal for landlords to take more than a month's advanced rent from tenants, Joy News has gathered.

According to the document which is awaiting Cabinet approval, tenants will be expected to deposit a three-month rent in the bank as security after paying a month rent.

The bill "is ready now. We have finalised it and we are working to send it to Parliament at this stage so I am hoping that in a week or two it will be submitted to Cabinet for consideration then we will bring it to Parliament,” Deputy sector Minister, Sampson Ahi told Joynews.

He revealed the decision was arrived at after exhaustive consultations with stakeholders.

He explained “It stands that nobody should pay more than a month rent advance,” adding “In fact with this we are encouraging one month with three-month security deposit.”

The minister, however, disclosed the final acceptance of the position will be taken at the Parliamentary level when the Select Committee on Works and Housing finalises the document for discussion on the floor of the House.

He was hopeful that by the time the bill becomes a law, the country will be able to put to rest the many rent-related issues in the country.