A proposed law before Parliament seeks to shield lawful occupants from sudden eviction, utility cut-offs, and coercive tactics by landlords, reshaping tenant rights across Sri Lanka.
The Occupiers Protection Bill, 2025, gazetted in September last year and recently tabled in Parliament by Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, aims to introduce clear legal safeguards against arbitrary eviction. The proposed legislation is designed to protect occupants from being forced out of premises without due process.
Under Section 2, the Bill applies to lawful occupants of premises as well as individuals who have resided continuously and without interruption for more than three months. This expands legal protection beyond formal leaseholders and reflects real living arrangements across the country.
Section 3 sets out key safeguards for occupants, prohibiting landlords from withholding essential facilities, utilities, or services previously provided. It also prevents landlords from refusing to repair or maintain such services or blocking necessary repairs, ensuring basic living conditions are preserved.
Section 4 addresses coercive conduct by making it unlawful for landlords to damage or demolish premises, directly or indirectly, with the intent of forcing an occupant to vacate. This provision targets intimidation and indirect eviction tactics.
Eviction is permitted only under Section 5 through the terms of a lawful lease agreement or a valid court order. Section 6 grants occupants the right to initiate legal action against landlords for violations, provided the case is filed within one month of the alleged act.
Courts may grant interim relief for up to fourteen days and are required to hear cases expeditiously, concluding hearings within three months, or nine months if objections are filed. Enforcement provisions allow courts to restore premises and penalise obstruction, including fines and imprisonment.
