Tenant Rights in Punjab: The Punjab Rented Premises Act 2009 Explained

Most landlord and tenant problems in Lahore come down to three things: nothing was written down, the rent increase wasn't agreed, or the deposit isn't returned. The Punjab Rented Premises Act, 2009 is the main law for rented houses, flats and shops in urban Punjab, including Lahore. This guide explains the parts that matter most in everyday renting.

Properties inside cantonment limits may be governed by a different rent law. If your property is in a cantonment area, check with a lawyer which law applies.

1. The agreement must be in writing

The Act requires a tenancy to be based on a written agreement, and a copy is to be given to the Rent Registrar of the area. A written agreement is your main evidence if anything goes wrong. Without one, it becomes your word against the other side's. Use our free rent agreement format as a starting point.

2. Rent increases

Landlord and tenant are free to agree the rent and how it will increase, and should write this into the agreement. Where the agreement says nothing about increases, the Act sets a default annual increase of 10%. A landlord cannot simply demand a much higher rent in the middle of an agreed term. More on this in how much rent goes up each year.

3. Paying rent

• Pay on time as agreed. Default in paying rent is one of the most common grounds for eviction.
• Pay by bank transfer where possible, or take a signed receipt for cash. Proof of payment is essential.
• If a landlord refuses to accept rent (sometimes done to build a default case), keep evidence of your attempt to pay and get legal advice promptly.

4. When can a tenant be evicted?

A landlord cannot throw a tenant out, change the locks or cut off utilities to force them out (see ending a tenancy for how notice should work). Eviction has to go through the Rent Tribunal. The grounds recognised by the Act include, for example:

• The agreed tenancy period has ended
• The tenant has not paid rent as agreed
• The tenant has sublet the premises without the landlord's written consent
• The premises are used for a purpose other than the one agreed, or for illegal activity
• The tenant has caused serious damage to the property or is a persistent nuisance to neighbours
• The landlord genuinely needs the premises for personal use, subject to the conditions in the law

5. Security deposit

The deposit belongs to the tenant and is held as security. The agreement should state the amount, what can be deducted (unpaid rent, unpaid bills, damage beyond normal wear and tear) and how many days after vacating it will be returned. Before handing back the keys:

• Do a joint walk-through with the landlord and take dated photos or a video.
• Record final meter readings and settle the last bills.
• Get the deposit return (or the list of deductions) confirmed in writing.

For typical amounts and a step-by-step way to get it back, see security deposit and advance rent in Lahore.

6. Repairs and access

The agreement should split responsibility: the tenant usually handles day-to-day upkeep, while the landlord handles structural and major repairs such as roof leakage, seepage and main supply lines. The landlord may inspect the property, but at reasonable times and with prior notice.

7. The Rent Tribunal

Disputes under the Act, such as eviction, rent and deposits, are heard by the Rent Tribunal. The Act is designed for quicker decisions than an ordinary civil suit. If a dispute is heading there, speak to a lawyer early and bring your agreement, receipts, bank records, photos and WhatsApp messages.

Tenant checklist

• Written agreement signed by the owner (or an authorised person) and two witnesses
• Rent increase percentage and notice period written in the agreement
• Proof of every payment
• Move-in photos and an inventory
• Police tenant registration slip

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws and procedures can change. For a specific situation, speak to a qualified lawyer or the relevant office.