Immani Blog

From Immani — Kenya's dispute resolution infrastructure.

My tenant is subletting without my permission — what can I legally do?

September 28, 2026
Key Takeaway

Learn what the law says about subletting in Kenya and how to take action against a tenant who is subletting without your permission.

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act, you have the right to control who lives in your rental property — Immani Legal AI lets you check your rights as a landlord for free, on your phone, in English or Kiswahili. Why this happens: Sometimes, tenants may sublet without permission to make extra money or to help a friend, but this can lead to problems with property maintenance, rent payments, and even safety. How Immani Legal AI works in this specific context: You can use Immani Legal AI to understand your rights as a landlord under the Landlord and Tenant Act. You can also use Immani Legal AI to draft a notice to your tenant, stating that they are in breach of their tenancy agreement. What happens next, concretely:

  1. You can file a dispute against your tenant's phone number using Immani for KSh 100.
  2. Your tenant will be notified immediately and will have a short private window to respond and engage directly with you.
  3. If your tenant does not respond, the dispute will become visible to anyone who looks up their phone number within Immani.
  4. You can use Immani Legal AI to draft a settlement agreement or a statement of claim to take to court if necessary. Immani and Immani Legal AI are not law firms and do not provide legal advice. This post is general information, not legal advice for your specific situation. For complex cases, consult a qualified advocate.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immani and Immani Legal AI are not law firms and do not provide legal representation. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For legal advice specific to your situation, consult a qualified advocate licensed to practice in Kenya.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I evict my tenant for subletting without permission?

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act, you can evict your tenant for subletting without permission, but you must follow the correct procedure.

How do I know if my tenant is subletting without permission?

You can check your tenant's rental agreement, inspect your property, and talk to your tenant to determine if they are subletting without permission.

Can I charge my tenant for subletting without permission?

You may be able to charge your tenant for any losses or damages caused by their subletting, but this will depend on the specific circumstances and the terms of your tenancy agreement.

Do I need a lawyer to take action against my tenant for subletting?

While it's possible to take action against your tenant without a lawyer, it's recommended that you consult a qualified advocate to ensure you follow the correct procedure and protect your rights.

How long does it take to resolve a dispute with my tenant?

The length of time it takes to resolve a dispute with your tenant will depend on the specific circumstances and the complexity of the case, but Immani can help you resolve disputes quickly and efficiently.

Can I get free legal information about my situation?

Yes. Immani Legal AI gives you answers based on Kenyan law — the Constitution, statutes, and case law. You can also draft legal documents, compare your case with precedents, and look up legal terms in plain language. It is free to use. Try Immani Legal AI →

landlordtenantsublettingKenya law