Prescriptive Title (Jayaboomi) Laws in Sri Lanka

"Possession is 9/10ths of the law."

In Sri Lanka, this is literally true. Under the Prescription Ordinance, if you occupy someone else's land undisturbed for 10 years, you can claim ownership.

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1. The Requirements (Section 3)

To claim Prescriptive Title (often called Jayaboomi colloquially), your possession must be:

1. Undisturbed: The owner didn't try to kick you out.
2. Uninterrupted: You didn't leave.
3. Adverse: You possessed it as if you were the owner (Title Adverse).
   • Note: A tenant paying rent CANNOT claim prescription. Paying rent acknowledges you aren't the owner.

2. How to Prove It

You can't just say it. You need a court case.

• Evidence: Electricity bills in your name (10 years), Grama Niladhari letters, witness statements.

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3. Buying Prescriptive Land

Risky.

• A prescriptive deed is often just a "Declaration" by the squatter.
• Banks usually reject these titles unless there is a court decree confirming it.
• However, rural lands often only have this title. It's cheaper but harder to finance.

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Get a clear title. Sinnakkara Lands Only