Amarasekera v. Somapala – sllr 2003 volume 3 page 258

In the case between Amarasekera (Plaintiff–appellant) and Somapala (Defendant–respondent), the court addressed the issue of whether the tenant’s conduct, notably through structural alterations and inadequate maintenance, resulted in deterioration of the leased premises warranting ejectment and damages. It was held that the tenant’s actions amounted to a failure to maintain the property to the standard required by law, and that the resulting damage was of sufficient seriousness to justify legal action. The principle reaffirmed was the strict duty on a tenant to care for leased property as an owner would, and to avoid any acts leading to substantial harm beyond ordinary wear and tear. The judgment drew on provisions of the Rent Restriction Act and established common law principles, confirmin