Mahinda v. Periapperuma and 2 Others – sllr 1996 volume 2 page 090

In the case between MAHINDA (appellant) and PERIAPPERUMA with two other individuals (plaintiff‑respondents), the court addressed the issue of rent arrears, the proper identification of the true landlord(s) in contrast to agents, and the efficacy of a notice to quit under the Rent Act. It was held that collection of rent by an agent did not confer landlord status, and attornment to the actual owners had legally occurred following a valid transfer of title. The notice to quit given by the plaintiff‑respondents was deemed valid, and the appeal was dismissed with costs. The principle reaffirmed that only the rightful landlord can issue a notice to quit, irrespective of past rent collection by an agent, with the decision grounded in statutory requirements of the Rent Act and relevant evidentiar