Renting A House In Bengaluru? New Rules Change Everything For Tenants And Landlords

Last Updated:December 07, 2025, 18:04 IST

New rental rules under the Model Tenancy Act cap security deposits, mandate written agreements, and define repair and eviction norms to protect both tenants and landlords.

The central government’s Model Tenancy Act, 2021, has brought significant changes to rental rules aimed at protecting both tenants and landlords. From security deposits to repairs and eviction norms, the updated guidelines promise more transparency and fairness in rental agreements.

Security Deposit Now Capped

In cities like Bengaluru, where tenants, especially bachelors, are often asked for 10 months’ advance, the new rules come as a major relief. Under the updated norms:

Residential properties: Security deposit capped at a maximum of two months’ rent

Commercial spaces: Up to six months’ rent allowed

At the time of vacating, landlords must return the deposit immediately after deducting any pending dues. This provision ensures financial safety for tenants who previously faced unreasonable demands.

Written Agreement Made Mandatory

Verbal assurance no longer holds value. A written rental agreement is now compulsory for both parties. Additionally:

• The agreement must be registered with the Rent Authority within two months.
• Online registration with digital stamping is available for convenience.
• This reduces disputes and makes legal action smoother in case of conflicts.
• Landlords Cannot Enter at Will.

Property owners can no longer walk in unannounced. For inspections or repairs:

• A minimum 24-hour prior notice is mandatory
• Visits must be during reasonable daytime hours
• Only emergencies, such as fire or flooding, allow entry without prior permission.
• Clear Division of Repair Responsibilities

The new rules clearly define who handles what:

Landlord’s responsibility: Structural repairs, plumbing pipelines, electrical wiring, wall painting, and major damage

Tenant’s responsibility: Minor fixes like switch replacements, tap washers, broken glass, drainage cleaning, and garden maintenance

This clarity puts an end to common disputes over maintenance.

Eviction Only Under Defined Conditions

Landlords cannot evict tenants at will. Eviction is permitted only if:

• Rent is unpaid for two consecutive months
• The tenant alters the property without permission
• The premises are misused or used illegally

If a tenant refuses to vacate even after the agreement expires, they must pay enhanced rent (double rent) until the property is vacated.

States Implementing the Act

States such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, and Maharashtra have already adopted the Model Tenancy Act into their local regulations. Cities like Bengaluru and Mumbai have seen rising rental agreement registrations, with Mumbai recording a 13% increase in the first half of 2024.

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In cities like Bengaluru, where tenants, especially bachelors, are often asked for 10 months’ advance, the new rules come as a major relief. Under the updated norms:

Residential properties: Security deposit capped at a maximum of two months’ rent
Commercial spaces: Up to six months’ rent allowed

At the time of vacating, landlords must return the deposit immediately after deducting any pending dues. This provision ensures financial safety for tenants who previously faced unreasonable demands.

Written Agreement Made Mandatory

Verbal assurance no longer holds value. A written rental agreement is now compulsory for both parties. Additionally:

• The agreement must be registered with the Rent Authority within two months.
• Online registration with digital stamping is available for convenience.
• This reduces disputes and makes legal action smoother in case of conflicts.
• Landlords Cannot Enter at Will.

Property owners can no longer walk in unannounced. For inspections or repairs:

• A minimum 24-hour prior notice is mandatory
• Visits must be during reasonable daytime hours
• Only emergencies, such as fire or flooding, allow entry without prior permission.
• Clear Division of Repair Responsibilities

The new rules clearly define who handles what:

Landlord’s responsibility: Structural repairs, plumbing pipelines, electrical wiring, wall painting, and major damage

Tenant’s responsibility: Minor fixes like switch replacements, tap washers, broken glass, drainage cleaning, and garden maintenance

This clarity puts an end to common disputes over maintenance.

Eviction Only Under Defined Conditions

Landlords cannot evict tenants at will. Eviction is permitted only if:

• Rent is unpaid for two consecutive months
• The tenant alters the property without permission
• The premises are misused or used illegally

If a tenant refuses to vacate even after the agreement expires, they must pay enhanced rent (double rent) until the property is vacated.

States Implementing the Act

States such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, and Maharashtra have already adopted the Model Tenancy Act into their local regulations. Cities like Bengaluru and Mumbai have seen rising rental agreement registrations, with Mumbai recording a 13% increase in the first half of 2024.

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