If you are a tenant and your landlord or agent is treating you unfairly—for example by increasing rent without notice, refusing to do repairs, trying to evict you unlawfully, or harassing you—you have the right to report them to a rent tribunal. Rent tribunals are legal bodies that help resolve disputes between tenants and landlords in a fair, simple, and affordable way.
What can be reported to the Tribunal
A tenant can take a landlord or agent to the rent tribunal if there are issues such as unlawful rent increases, illegal eviction threats, refusal to repair or maintain the house, denial of services like water or electricity, failure to refund the security deposit, or harassment and intimidation.
Rent Tribunals in Kenya
- Residential disputes are handled by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
- Disputes involving commercial property such as shops, stalls, or business offices are handled by the Business Premises Rent Tribunal (BPRT).
These tribunals are guided by the Rent Restriction Act, Cap 296, and the Landlord and Tenant (Shops, Hotels and Catering Establishments) Act, Cap 301.
Step by step procedure for reporting a Landlord or Agent
- File your complaint. You can visit your nearest tribunal office or use the eCitizen portal to submit your complaint online. The form will ask you to explain your issue and provide basic information such as your name, the landlord’s details, and any proof of the issue like receipts or photos.
- Pay the filing fee. There is a small fee charged when submitting the complaint, usually between Kenya Shillings 200 and 500. If you are unable to pay, you may request the tribunal to waive the fee.
- Receive a summons and hearing date. Once the complaint is accepted, the tribunal will issue a notice to the landlord or agent and give both parties a date to appear before the tribunal.
- Attend the hearing. On the set date, both you and the landlord will explain your sides of the story. You may bring a lawyer if you wish, but it is not required. The tribunal allows tenants to represent themselves.
- Get the decision. After hearing both sides, the tribunal will make a ruling. It may stop an eviction, order a rent refund, direct repairs to be made, set new rent terms, or award compensation. The decision has the force of law and both sides must obey it.
What the tenant should know
- Do not stop paying rent because of a disagreement. Use the correct legal process through the tribunal.
- Always keep written agreements and receipts for rent and deposits.
- A landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason and an order from a tribunal or court.
- You have the right to be heard. You do not need a lawyer to file a complaint or appear at the tribunal.
- The rent tribunal is usually faster, cheaper, and simpler than going to a regular court.
Conclusion
Tenants have legal rights and should not remain silent if those rights are violated. The rent tribunal exists to provide justice and resolve disputes fairly. Whether you live in a single room, apartment, or business space, the law protects your tenancy. If you are facing problems with your landlord or agent, do not fear. Follow the correct procedure and let the tribunal help you settle the matter lawfully.
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