A Careful Approach to Property Due Diligence in Ghana

Verify the parties and land records

Confirm the identity and authority of the seller or developer and have a qualified Ghanaian lawyer review the documents. Use the Lands Commission’s official services to support searches and registration steps. Check that names, parcel details, site plans and interests are consistent; investigate discrepancies before proceeding.

Check planning and physical conditions

Ask for the relevant planning and building approvals, then confirm them with the issuing authority. A technical inspection should consider access, drainage, utilities, structure, finishes, boundaries and surrounding development. For an incomplete property, establish what remains, who bears the cost and what evidence will demonstrate completion.

Understand the transaction and ongoing obligations

Review the payment schedule, conditions, taxes or fees, service charges, common-area rules, defect process, insurance responsibilities and termination terms. Ensure that any promise important to the decision is written into the agreement. Do not rely on verbal assurances about availability, completion dates or returns.

Prepare for handover

Before handover, inspect against the agreement and record outstanding items with dates and responsibilities. Obtain keys, meter information, approved drawings where applicable, warranties, manuals and emergency contacts. Keep signed records and evidence of payments securely.

Practical takeaways

• Use official searches
• Get independent advice
• Put important promises in writing

Sources and References

• Lands Commission online services — Lands Commission Ghana
• Ghana Housing Profile — UN-Habitat

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