A landlord can seek eviction under certain legally recognized reasons. These typically include:
- The tenant is in arrears of rent (i.e. behind on rent by over a month) when the property is under the Rent Act.
- The tenant is using the property for immoral or illegal purposes, or using it in a way that causes substantial damage or deterioration to the premises.
- The landlord (or certain close family members) needs the premises for their own residence or business purposes.
How to Serve Notice and Begin Eviction
- Provide written notice: For a tenancy (especially monthly tenancy outside Rent Act), it’s common to give at least one month’s notice.
- If the tenant does not vacate by the end of the notice period and if the reasons are valid, you may file a case in court to obtain an eviction order.
What Happens If The Landlord Does Not Follow Legal Procedures
- The eviction can be declared unlawful, and the tenant can claim relief, possibly including compensation.
- Courts may reject eviction claims where the application does not comply with the legal requirements introduced under the latest law.
Best Practices for Landlords in Sri Lanka
- Ensure you have a proper lease agreement, preferably written and signed by both parties.
- If you need the property for personal use, legally document your need; consider how the law handles such cases.
- When evicting, always issue formal notice, allow reasonable time for vacating, and if not complied with — proceed via court to obtain eviction order legally.
- Avoid trying to forcibly remove tenant or cut utilities, as this is illegal and could expose you to liability.
- If unsure, consult a lawyer familiar with landlord-tenant law in Sri Lanka — especially given that laws have recently changed.