Evicting Tenants From Your Rental Property in Sri Lanka

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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.

 

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