Akram has been renting a small apartment in Kampala for two years. He has never missed rent, keeps the place clean, and gets along with the neighbours. A few months ago, he started dating the landlord's daughter. When the landlord found out, he was furious. He told Akram to pack his things and leave by the end of the week. Akram is shocked because he has done nothing wrong. Is it illegal to date the landlord’s daughter?
WHAT DOES THE LAW SAY?
No, a landlord cannot evict you simply because you are dating their daughter.
Under the law, a landlord must have a valid legal reason before evicting you from a rented house. If you fail to pay rent, use the premises for an unlawful purpose, cause a nuisance or interference with other tenants' enjoyment of the property, or cause significant damage to the premises.
If the landlord has none of these legal grounds, they must give you sufficient notice under the Act before requiring you to leave. This notice period gives you time to find alternative accommodation. It is usually one month if stated in the tenancy agreement, or three months if there is no written agreement.
Unless your tenancy agreement specifically and clearly prohibits dating the landlord's relatives (which would be unusual and potentially unenforceable), you are not in breach of the agreement.
So, Akram has the right to quiet enjoyment of the premises. This means the landlord cannot interfere with your peaceful occupation. Second, you are protected from unlawful eviction. If the landlord tries to evict you without following the law, you are entitled to compensation of up to three months' rent. The landlord cannot simply change the locks or force you out.
If they try to force him out, he can report the matter to the police or go to court to stop the unlawful eviction and claim compensation.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Your tenancy is a legal contract, not a tool for a landlord's personal control. You cannot be evicted for dating their daughter – if they try, they are breaking the law.
Have you been threatened with an unlawful eviction? Inbox us for guidance on protecting your rights.
Source: #barefootlaw
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