These are tips how to evict a tenant in Uganda
The fact that you are a good landlord doesn’t mean that you’re immune from having bad tenants. Tenant screening is vital, but even under the best of circumstances, it’s not unusual for a well-intentioned tenant to struggle to pay rent from time to time.
Even if you have a good relationship with your tenant, sometimes they just won’t be able to pay you. Eviction seems harsh, but it’s the business of rental properties. If a tenant can’t pay, you have to remove them from your property. Sometimes, it’s as simple as asking them to leave. Other times, you will have to go through the formal eviction process.
Regardless of the situation, prior starting the eviction process, you must know proper rules and procedures to follow.
- Be Familiar with the Landlord and Tenant Act in Uganda
Unlawful eviction of tenant
In Clause 49, for unlawful eviction of a tenant, the landlord upon conviction faces a custodial sentence of one year or a fine equivalent to three months payable of rent or both.
The law provides for lawful means of evicting a tenant who does not comply with the tenancy agreements. However, the landlord shall issue a notice of six months to a tenant to vacate the premises unless otherwise when there is breach of the tenancy agreement.
- Give a Formal Notice of Eviction and Don’t Take Matters into Your Own Hands.
In order for the law to be on your side, you’ll need to follow these rules closely, and make sure that you do not to give authority any reason to doubt that you are an outstanding law-abiding citizen.
If your tenant has chosen to be uncooperative one of the most important steps is to provide adequate notice of eviction.
Eviction Notice tips
It must have a deadline (date) to “pay-rent or move out”.
It must include the amount owed (including all fees)
You are required to post this notice within X number of days.
- There must be a Valid Reason for Eviction of the tenant
To start the eviction process you must have a good and lawful reason to. The following reasons will be good for an eviction:
Failing to pay rent for according to tenancy agreement
Violating tenancy agreement
Causing damage the house
If there are health and safety hazards caused by the tenant
Therefore note you’ll need documented proof of any claim against your tenant.
Evictions cost money, time, and energy, always make sure you are on the right side of the law and everything will go as planned. The court or law will take it course so that the tenant can be evicted.
