Fulfillment of Landlord-Tenant Agreements

The relationship between a landlord and tenant is built upon trust and the fulfillment of mutually agreed-upon terms. Islam emphasizes the importance of honoring such agreements, ensuring fairness and justice for both parties.

Obligation of the Landlord​

The landlord must:

1. Honor Promises:
   Fulfill the commitment to provide the rental property as per the agreement.
2. Adhere to Conditions:
   Comply with all agreed-upon conditions or those that are customary and reasonable within the societal context.
3. Respect the Term:
   Ensure that the agreement remains valid and binding for the duration mentioned in the contract.

Evidence from the Quran​

Allah commands:
"O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts."
[Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:1)]

This verse underscores the importance of respecting contracts and agreements in all dealings.

Evidence from Hadith​

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
"The believers fulfill their agreed-upon conditions, except for conditions that make the unlawful lawful or the lawful unlawful."
[Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 3594]

Guidelines for the Landlord and Tenant​

1. Renewal of Agreement:
   
   • If both parties agree to renew the lease, they must continue to respect the terms stated in the new contract.
2. Refusal of Renewal:
   
   • If the landlord refuses to renew the lease after the term expires, the tenant is obliged to vacate the property.
3. Prohibition of Unlawful Use:
   
   • It is impermissible for the tenant to remain in the property or damage it without the landlord’s consent.
   • Using someone’s property without their approval is considered haram (unlawful).

Key Lessons​

1. Justice in Agreements:
   Both parties must ensure fairness and avoid exploitation.
2. Accountability to Allah:
   Honoring agreements is not just a legal or social duty but an act of worship and obedience to Allah.
3. Mutual Respect:
   Landlords and tenants must maintain respect and uphold their respective rights and duties as per the agreement.
4. Prohibition of Harm:
   Causing harm to the property or the other party is strictly prohibited in Islam.

Conclusion​

Fulfilling the terms of agreements between landlords and tenants is a moral, social, and religious obligation. It reflects trustworthiness, upholds justice, and aligns with the teachings of Islam.