Tenant Rights Guide

💰 Security Deposit

The security deposit is money paid to the landlord before moving in, refundable at the end of the tenancy.

• Most states cap security deposit at 2–3 months' rent (e.g., Karnataka: 10 months, Maharashtra: 3 months)
• Landlord must provide a written receipt for the deposit
• Deposit must be returned within 30 days of vacating
• Landlord can deduct only for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear
• You can demand itemised deduction statement if any amount is withheld

📈 Rent Increase Rights

Landlords cannot arbitrarily increase rent during your tenancy period.

• Rent can only be increased at the end of the agreement period (typically 11 months)
• For month-to-month tenancies, 30-day prior written notice is required
• Under the Model Tenancy Act, annual rent increase is capped at agreed rates
• Any increase must be mutually agreed and documented in writing
• Rent control acts in some states (Mumbai, Delhi) further limit increases

🏠 Protection from Illegal Eviction

You cannot be evicted without proper legal process, even if your agreement has expired.

• Landlord cannot forcibly evict you without a court order
• Physical eviction, locking you out, or removing belongings is illegal
• Landlord must give proper notice (15–60 days depending on state) before terminating tenancy
• Valid grounds for eviction: non-payment of rent, property damage, sub-letting without permission, illegal use of property
• If you receive an eviction notice, you have the right to contest it in the Rent Control Court

🔧 Right to Habitable Conditions

Landlords are legally obligated to maintain the property in a liveable condition.

• Landlord is responsible for structural repairs (roof, walls, foundation)
• Major plumbing issues (leaks, drainage) must be fixed by landlord
• Electrical safety is the landlord's responsibility
• Report issues in writing (WhatsApp/email) and keep records
• If landlord refuses to repair, you can deduct repair costs from rent (with proper documentation)
• Day-to-day minor maintenance (bulb replacement, minor wear) is usually tenant's responsibility

🔐 Right to Privacy

Your home is your private space — even the landlord cannot enter without permission.

• Landlord must give 24–48 hours advance notice before visiting
• Visits should only happen during reasonable hours (9 AM–7 PM)
• Emergency entry (fire, flood) is an exception
• CCTV cameras inside your rented unit by landlord are illegal
• Landlord cannot harass you, your family, or interfere with peaceful enjoyment

📄 Rental Agreement Rights

Your rights and obligations are defined by the rental agreement — read it carefully before signing.

• Always get a registered or notarised rental agreement
• Unregistered 11-month agreements are common but legally weaker
• Both parties must sign and keep a copy of the agreement
• Any verbal promise not in the agreement is not legally enforceable
• Under the Model Tenancy Act (2021), disputes go to a Rent Authority, not civil courts
• You can demand a translation if the agreement is in a language you don't understand

🗺️ State-wise Security Deposit Limits