Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Sri Lanka

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C. Mathew & Co.
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1892
200 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
About Us & Our History"Necessarily in connection with the shipping of so important a port as Colombo there is a large field for the business of ship chandlers and stevedores ; and Messrs. C. Mathew & Co., the leading local firm in this line, conduct operations on an extensive scale. This...
TRIVE LEGAL ASSOCIATES
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
OverviewRanging from the work of an Instructing Attorney to fully fledged Counsel in the Courts of First Instance, Appellate Courts and any other for a. We also facilitate mediations, arbitrations, negotiations, settlementWe specialize in Company Law, Commercial Law, Intellectual Property, Shipping...

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
About UsPrasanna Karunasekara Law Chamber (PK Law Chamber) is a Law Chamber working with a team of highly skilled law partitioners. The rapidity with which, Prasanna Karunasekara Law Chambers (PK Law Chambers) has reached its goals, while offering a broad range of practice areas, we take pride in...
Nithi Murugesu & Associates
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1962
200 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
Nithi   Murugesu   &   Associates   are   a   team   of   experienced   Attorneys-at-Law   and   Patent   & Trademark  Agents  who  specialize  in  all  areas  of  civil  and...
Colombo Law Alliance (CLA)
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 2012
50 people in their team
Introduction to CLAThe team at CLA brings together extensive experience and expertise in providing specialized legal services to a substantial network of clients both in the private sector and the public sector. These services are provided in connection with litigation, arbitration, negotiation of...
Julius & Creasy
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1879
200 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
Our HistoryWith its near 140 year history Julius & Creasy is one of the oldest law Firms in Sri Lanka, while also being the largest. Its reputation is one that has been built on rich tradition as well as the caliber of professionals passing through its corridors.The beginnings of the...
Neelakandan & Neelakandan
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1962
200 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Neelakandan & Neelakandan (formerly Murugesu & Neelakandan) is one of the leading and oldest full-service law firms in Sri Lanka and has been in practice for almost 60 years.The Firm was founded in 1962 by the late Mr. Velupillai Murugesu, and built to be recognised as one of the most...
Simon & Associates
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 2002
50 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
Simon & Associates is one of Sri Lanka’s leading legal firms, providing legal counsel and corporate secretarial services to portfolio consisting of local and multinational clients.Led by Simon Senaratna who brings substantial experience in the legal and business sectors, together with Nirosha...
Continental Law AssocIates
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
ABOUT USEstablished in the year 2000, we take pride in our nearly two decades long legal practice providing feasible solutions to the legal needs of clients in a multitude of areas. The firm has had hands on experience, specializing in Commercial Law, Local and International Arbitration, Civil Law...
de Livera Associates
Colombo, Sri Lanka

Founded in 1872
200 people in their team
Sinhala
English
Tamil
HISTORY & LEGAL INSPIRATIONThe Firm of De Livera Associates was founded, by Solomon Christoffel Obeyesekere De Livera, popularly known as Christo De Livera, on his retirement from the Attorney General’s Department of Sri Lanka, having served for a period of about three decades and who on his...
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About Landlord & Tenant Law in Sri Lanka

Landlord and tenant law in Sri Lanka is primarily governed by the Rent Act No. 7 of 1972, which aims to regulate the relationship between landlords and tenants, particularly in regard to rental agreements and property occupancy. The law seeks to protect the rights of tenants while ensuring that landlords can reasonably manage their properties. The regulations cover a wide array of issues including rent control, eviction proceedings, lease agreements, and maintenance responsibilities. Understanding these legal frameworks is crucial for both landlords and tenants to navigate their rights and responsibilities effectively.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer can be necessary in several common situations involving landlord and tenant matters:

1. Disputes Over Rent: Legal intervention might be required when there is disagreement regarding rent amounts or late payments.

2. Eviction Processes: Whether a landlord wishes to evict a tenant, or a tenant feels wrongfully evicted, legal guidance is often essential.

3. Lease Agreement Drafting and Interpretation: Lawyers can draft clear legal documents and interpret complex clauses to avoid future disputes.

4. Property Damage and Maintenance Issues: Disputes often arise concerning responsibility for maintenance and repair costs.

5. Security Deposits: Legal advice may be needed concerning the lawful withholding or return of security deposits.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of landlord and tenant law in Sri Lanka include:

Rent Control: Rent control applies to certain properties, limiting the amount a landlord can charge and conditions under which rent can be increased.

Termination of Tenancy: Legal procedures for terminating tenancies vary based on the reason for eviction, including unpaid rent or breach of contract.

Lease Agreements: Written agreements should clearly detail terms, including duration, rent, and obligations for both parties.

Maintenance Responsibilities: Landlords must ensure properties are fit for occupation and perform necessary repairs, while tenants are expected to prevent any undue damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum rent increase allowed under Sri Lankan law?

The maximum rent increase is typically regulated by the Rent Act, and any increase usually requires an assessment and approval if the premises fall under rent control.

Can a landlord evict a tenant without notice?

No, legal process must be followed, which typically includes providing adequate notice. Summary eviction is not permissible without adhering to legal procedures.

What should be included in a rental agreement?

A valid rental agreement should include terms on rent, lease duration, both parties' obligations, payment schedules, and dispute resolution methods.

How is a security deposit handled?

Security deposits are typically held by the landlord and should be returned at the end of the tenancy, unless there is damage or unpaid rent.

Who is responsible for repairs?

Generally, landlords are responsible for structural repairs, whereas tenants should cover damage caused by negligence or misuse.

Are oral agreements legally binding?

Oral agreements can be legally binding, but they are difficult to enforce. Therefore, written agreements are highly recommended.

How can disputes be resolved?

Disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or by taking legal action if necessary.

Does the Rent Act apply to commercial properties?

The Rent Act primarily governs residential properties, but certain provisions may apply to commercial properties depending on the context.

What happens if a tenant breaches the lease agreement?

The landlord may have grounds to terminate the tenancy or seek restitution through legal avenues.

Is it legal to sublet a rental property?

Subletting is typically only allowed if the lease agreement explicitly permits it and usually requires the landlord’s consent.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider reaching out to the following resources:

Legal Aid Commission of Sri Lanka: Offers free legal services to those unable to afford legal representation.

Consumer Affairs Authority: Can assist with issues related to consumer rights and disputes.

Sri Lanka Apartment Management and Valuation Institute: Provides professional guidance in property management and valuation.

Local Municipal Councils: Often provide helpful information regarding property legislation and rights.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with landlord and tenant matters, consider taking the following steps:

1. Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant documents such as lease agreements, rent receipts, and correspondence pertaining to the issue.

2. Consult a Lawyer: Seek advice from a lawyer specializing in landlord and tenant law to understand your rights and options.

3. Explore Mediation: Consider mediation as a cost-effective way to resolve disputes before pursuing formal legal action.

4. File a Complaint: If mediation fails, your lawyer may suggest filing a complaint with a relevant legal body.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Sri Lanka through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Landlord & Tenant, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Sri Lanka - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.