*UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF CARETAKERS IN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT IN GHANA* In Ghana, the term " *caretaker* " is prevalent within real estate contexts. It denotes an individual permitted to reside on or supervise a property—such as land or an incomplete building—on behalf of the legitimate owner, typically during their absence. *Responsibilities of a Caretaker:* Caretakers are generally appointed to: - Prevent land encroachment and unauthorized occupation - Maintain a physical presence on unfinished houses or undeveloped lands - Discourage land guards, squatters, and unauthorized developments In many instances, caretakers reside on the property without payment in exchange for their supervisory duties. *Do Caretakers Possess Ownership Rights?* No. A caretaker does not possess any legal ownership or tenancy rights. They merely hold the property in trust for the owner and are expected to vacate the premises when requested. *However, issues may arise when:* - There is no formal written agreement - The caretaker remains for an extended period - The caretaker invests in structures or farming without formal authorization *Are Property Owners Obligated to Compensate Caretakers When Requested to Leave?* Legally, no. Unless previously agreed upon, owners are not required to provide compensation to caretakers. Nonetheless, in practice, some owners may offer goodwill payments to avert conflicts, particularly if the caretaker acted in good faith or resided there for a prolonged duration. *Risks Associated with Informal Caretaker Agreements:* - The caretaker may refuse to vacate - Unauthorized sale or rental of the property by the caretaker - Potential legal disputes over land use or "sweat equity" *Best Practices for Property Owners:* 1. Utilize a written caretaker agreement with explicit terms and a termination clause. 2. Avoid long-term informal arrangements. 3. Conduct regular inspections of your property or assign a reliable agent. 4. Involve a witness or local authority when signing the agreement. *Conclusion:* The caretaker system can be beneficial; however, without proper documentation, it may lead to costly disputes. If you own property in Ghana and require a reliable caretaker arrangement or legal assistance, ensure all procedures are conducted professionally and documented in writing. Require assistance with drafting a caretaker agreement or managing your land? *T-SQUARE PROPERTIES AND CONSTRUCTION* is available to support you. *Contact Information:* *Call:* +233 50 808 8983 *WhatsApp:* +233 26 909 9848 *Email:* [email protected] Your Trusted Partner in Real Estate