Room Dekho Editorial Team
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8 min read
A rent agreement protects both the tenant and the owner. Here is a plain-language guide to getting one right.
Why 11 months?
Under the Registration Act, leases of 12 months or more must be registered, which means higher stamp duty and a visit to the sub-registrar. That is why most residential agreements are made for 11 months and renewed afterwards.
Stamp duty
Stamp duty varies by state. It is usually a small percentage of the total rent plus deposit, or a fixed amount for short agreements. Many states now offer e-stamping online, and the agreement is printed on e-stamp paper and signed by both parties and two witnesses.
Clauses every agreement should include
- Names and addresses of the owner and tenant, with ID proof.
- The full property address and a list of furniture and fittings provided.
- Monthly rent, the due date and the payment method.
- Security deposit amount and refund timeline.
- Maintenance, electricity and water charges: who pays what.
- Lock-in period and notice period for both sides.
- Annual rent increase, commonly 5–10%.
- Rules on sub-letting, pets and structural changes.
Police verification
Many cities require tenant police verification. It is quick, often online, and protects the owner legally.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For high-value leases, consult a lawyer.
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