Shaik Ibrahim Ahamed Kabeer v. M.I Mohamed Zahir – SC APPEAL NO.131/2012-2016

The case between Shaik Ibrahim Ahamed Kabeer and M.I. Mohamed Zahir addressed whether the premises in dispute qualified as “excepted premises” under Regulation 3 of the Rent Act No. 7 of 1972, considering the assessed valuation at the commencement of the tenancy and the local authority in place at that time. Determination centered on whether subsequent changes in property valuation or elevation in municipal status would retrospectively affect the legal status of the tenancy agreement. The findings established that such changes do not alter the original contractual position; the law and valuation applicable are those in force at the inception of the tenancy. The court relied on established authorities and precedents, including Baily vs. De Crespigny and A.H.M.M. Hadjiar vs. Marzook and Co L