Tenant and Landlord Rights in India (2025) – Rental Laws & Legal Guide
Know your tenant and landlord rights in India (2025)! Learn about rent control laws, eviction rules, security deposits, and rental agreements for a hassle-free renting experience.
Table of Contents
Why Knowing Your Rights Can Save You Thousands
Did you know? In many cities, over 35% of rental disputes end up in court simply because people don’t fully understand their rights.
Imagine moving into your dream rental home, only to face an unfair rent hike or sudden eviction notice. Or picture being a landlord stuck with a tenant who hasn’t paid rent in months but refuses to leave.
Rental laws exist to protect both sides — but they work only if you know them.
Overview
This guide will walk you through key rights for tenants and landlords under the latest 2025 rental laws. You’ll learn:
- What rent caps and deposit limits apply in your city
- How to protect yourself with a proper rental agreement
- Legal steps for eviction, rent hikes, and dispute resolution
By the end, you’ll know exactly where you stand — whether you’re handing over the keys or moving in.
Find rental properties that follow fair rent laws, have clear agreements, and meet safety standards — see available listings here.
Rights of Tenants in India
1. Right to a Fair Rent
Under the state’s Rent Control Act, a tenant must pay only a reasonable rent.
For example, in Tamil Nadu, annual rent increases are capped at fair market rates, while in Maharashtra, the landlord must follow government-set guidelines.
Key Point: Landlords cannot arbitrarily raise rent mid-tenancy without following the legal process.
2. Right to a Written Agreement
A registered rental agreement is your strongest defence against future disputes.
It should clearly mention:
- Rent amount and payment date
- Security deposit and refund policy
- Duration of stay
- Who handles maintenance
- Renewal or termination terms
Without it, even small disagreements can become expensive legal battles.
3. Right to a Habitable Property
Tenants are entitled to a safe and livable home. This means:
- Clean drinking water supply
- Working sanitation facilities
- Uninterrupted electricity
- A structurally sound building
If a property develops dangerous damage (like a leaking roof or faulty wiring), the landlord must fix it promptly after being informed.
4. Right Against Unlawful Eviction
A landlord cannot remove a tenant without proper legal notice. Common valid reasons for eviction include:
- Not paying rent
- Using the property for illegal purposes
- Causing major property damage
- Breaching the rental agreement
Example: In Delhi, a landlord must serve a legal notice and, if the tenant refuses to vacate, get a court order before proceeding.
5. Right to Privacy
Your landlord cannot show up unannounced. Visits require prior notice, except in emergencies. Repeated intrusions can be treated as harassment under law.
6. Right to Security Deposit Refund
At tenancy end, you are entitled to your full deposit back, minus valid deductions for unpaid rent or unusual damage. A detailed breakdown is mandatory if deductions are made.
7. Right to File a Complaint
If your rights are violated, you can approach:
- Rent Control Court
- Consumer Forum
- Civil Courts
Learn more in our full guide: Tenant Rights in India (2025) – Legal Protections, Eviction Rules & Rent Laws
Rights of Landlords in India
1. Right to Receive Rent on Time
If rent is delayed, landlords can issue notices, apply penalties (if mentioned in the agreement), and even start legal recovery procedures.
2. Right to Increase Rent Fairly
Most states allow a 5–10% yearly hike, but written notice (1–3 months in advance) is a must.
3. Right to a Security Deposit
Deposit amounts vary:
- Bengaluru – Up to 10 months’ rent
- Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai – 3–6 months’ rent
- Kolkata – 2–3 months’ rent
The landlord must return the deposit after deductions for valid reasons only.
4. Right to Evict a Tenant
Eviction is legal if the tenant:
- Doesn’t pay rent for long
- Misuses the property
- Causes severe damage
- Refuses to vacate after the lease ends
5. Right to Inspect the Property
Visits must be at a reasonable time with prior notice.
6. Right to Reclaim the Property
If the tenant refuses to leave post-lease, landlords can approach Rent Control Court.
7. Right to Recover Dues
Costs for unpaid rent or major damages can be deducted from the deposit or recovered via legal action.
How to Avoid Tenant–Landlord Disputes
- Always have a clear, registered rental agreement
- Communicate openly about rent, maintenance, and deposits
- Respect each other’s rights
- Follow legal eviction procedures instead of forceful removal
Final Words
Knowing your rights as a tenant or landlord can save you from unnecessary stress and financial loss.
Always sign a registered rental agreement, follow state laws, and communicate clearly.
Looking for verified rental properties?
Visit www.maadiveedu.com for the best rental deals.
For more real estate insights, check out blog.maadiveedu.com.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can a landlord evict a tenant without notice?
No, written notice is mandatory. Sudden eviction is illegal.
2. Can a tenant refuse a rent hike?
Yes, if it’s not in the agreement or is excessive, they can complain to the Rent Control Board.
3. How much deposit can be charged?
Depends on the state — from 2 months’ rent in Kolkata to 10 months in Bengaluru.
4. What if the landlord refuses deposit refund?
Send a legal notice, then approach the Consumer Forum or Rent Control Court.
5. Can tenants make changes to the property?
Major changes need landlord’s written permission.
