Renting Checklist

Rental deposits vary significantly across Indian cities:

• Bangalore — 10 months' rent (highest in India) • Mumbai — 3–6 months' rent • Delhi/NCR — 2–3 months' rent • Chennai — 3–6 months' rent • Hyderabad — 2–3 months' rent

Always insist on a receipt for your deposit payment and ensure the amount is clearly mentioned in the rental agreement. The deposit should be refundable at the end of the lease, minus any legitimate deductions for damages.

Before signing, inspect the property thoroughly:

• Check all taps, faucets, and flush for water pressure and leaks • Test all electrical switches, fans, and power outlets • Look for damp patches, paint peeling, or cracks in walls • Check windows and doors — they should open/close smoothly • Test the geyser, AC units, and kitchen appliances (if provided)

Document the existing condition with photos and share them with the landlord via email. This protects you from false damage claims when you move out.

Key clauses to check in your rental agreement:

• Lock-in period — typically 6–12 months; leaving early means forfeiting the deposit • Rent escalation — annual increase is usually 5–10%; get it in writing • Maintenance charges — clarify who pays society maintenance, water, and property tax • Subletting — most agreements prohibit it; check if you plan to share • Notice period — usually 1–2 months from either side • Painting clause — many landlords expect fresh painting on exit; negotiate this upfront

Rental agreements above 11 months should be registered (mandatory in most states). Registration costs are typically shared between landlord and tenant.

Complete police verification — it is mandatory in most cities and protects both parties. In Bangalore, you can do this online at the Karnataka Police portal. Keep a copy of the registered agreement, deposit receipts, and police verification acknowledgement.

Generate rent receipts monthly for HRA tax benefits — use our Rental Receipt Generator at /tools/rent-receipt-generator.