POTA is an acronym that stands for the Protection of Tenants' Act. It is a legislative act or law that provides legal protection and rights to tenants, especially in the context of rental property agreements. POTA is a set of regulations that aim to safeguard tenants from unfair practices and exploitation by landlords or property owners.
Under POTA, tenants are granted certain rights and protections that include but are not limited to:
- Protection against illegal evictions: The act prohibits landlords from evicting tenants without proper legal procedures or valid reasons, ensuring that tenants have security of tenure.
- Rent control: POTA may include provisions that regulate and limit the amount of rent increase, preventing landlords from charging excessive rent or implementing sudden and unfair hikes.
- Maintenance and repairs: The act may require landlords to ensure that the rental property is in a liveable condition, making them responsible for necessary repairs and maintenance.
- Privacy and peaceful enjoyment: POTA may protect tenants' privacy by prohibiting landlords from entering the rental premises without adequate notice or consent. It also ensures that tenants have the right to peaceful enjoyment of their rented space.
- Security deposits: The act may provide guidelines and restrictions on how landlords can handle security deposits, including the circumstances under which they can withhold or deduct money from the deposit.
Overall, POTA is designed to create a fair and balanced relationship between tenants and landlords, addressing power imbalances and promoting stability and fairness in the rental market.
