Rental Agreement Checklist

A poorly drafted rental agreement is the #1 reason for tenant-landlord disputes in India. Use this checklist before you sign.

Must-have clauses

1. Monthly rent with annual escalation (usually 5-10%).
2. Security deposit — 2-3 months in most cities, 10 months in Bengaluru.
3. Lock-in period and notice period (typically 1-3 months).
4. Maintenance — who pays society charges, water, electricity.
5. Repairs — landlord usually handles structural; tenant handles minor fixes.
6. Permitted use — residential vs commercial vs WFH.
7. Subletting clause — usually forbidden without written consent.
8. Painting / restoration clause at exit.
9. Termination grounds — late payment, illegal activity, etc.
10. Inventory list of furniture and appliances with condition notes.
11. Registration — agreements over 11 months must be registered.
12. Stamp duty — varies by state, usually 0.25-1% of annual rent.

Red flags

• Verbal agreements ("we'll handle it informally")
• Cash-only deposit with no receipt
• Missing PAN / Aadhaar copy of landlord
• No witness signatures

Always take photos at move-in and request a signed inventory.