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Free Residential Tenancy Agreement Template for India
Establish a clear residential tenancy in India with a professionally drafted Rent Agreement compliant with the Transfer of Property Act 1882 and applicable state Rent Control Acts. Our template covers rent, security deposit, maintenance, and termination provisions.
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RESIDENTIAL TENANCY AGREEMENT
LANDLORD
Suresh Venkataraman Iyer
12, 4th Block, Koramangala, Bengaluru - 560 034, Karnataka (PAN: ABCPI1234D)
By: Ph: +91 98765 43210 · E: suresh.iyer@gmail.com
TENANT
Ananya Krishnaswamy
Flat 7C, Prestige Sunrise Park, HSR Layout, Bengaluru - 560 102, Karnataka (PAN: AAAPA5678K), Aadhaar (last 4): XXXX XXXX 7890
ID Proof: Aadhaar Card
ID Proof: Aadhaar Card
By: Ph: +91 99876 54321 · E: ananya.k@email.com
Premises: Flat No. 301, 3rd Floor, Sai Residency, 15th Cross, Koramangala 4th Block, Bengaluru - 560 034
Commencement: 1 May 2026 · Duration: 11 months
TENANCY DETAILS
| PREMISES | Flat No. 301, 3rd Floor, Sai Residency, 15th Cross, Koramangala 4th Block, Bengaluru - 560 034 |
| TYPE | 2 BHK Flat |
| COMMENCEMENT | 1 May 2026 |
| DURATION | 11 months |
| MONTHLY RENT | 30,000.00 INR |
| SECURITY DEPOSIT | 1,80,000.00 INR |
| MAINTENANCE CHARGE | 3,000.00 INR/month |
| ANNUAL RENT INCREMENT | 5% per annum on renewal |
| LOCK-IN PERIOD | 6 months |
Note on Registration: This Agreement is for a period of 11 months. As the duration is less than twelve (12) months, compulsory registration under Section 17 of the Registration Act, 1908 is not required. However, the Parties may voluntarily register the Agreement to secure their respective rights. Nominal stamp duty is payable under the applicable Karnataka Stamp Act. Upon expiry, the Agreement may be renewed for a further 11-month term by executing a fresh agreement.
1.
TENANCY AND POSSESSION
The Landlord, Suresh Venkataraman Iyer, hereby lets and the Tenant, Ananya Krishnaswamy, hereby takes on rent the residential premises described as Flat No. 301, 3rd Floor, Sai Residency, 15th Cross, Koramangala 4th Block, Bengaluru - 560 034 (the "Premises"), being a 2 BHK Flat situated in Karnataka. The tenancy shall commence on 1 May 2026 and shall continue for a period of 11 months, unless sooner terminated in accordance with the terms hereof. The Tenant shall be entitled to quiet possession of the Premises throughout the tenancy, free from disturbance by the Landlord or any person claiming through the Landlord, in accordance with Section 108(o) of the Transfer of Property Act, 1882 ("TPA 1882"). The Premises shall be used by the Tenant solely for residential purposes and for no other purpose whatsoever.
2.
RENT AND PAYMENT
The Tenant agrees to pay the Landlord a monthly rent of 30,000.00 INR. Rent shall be paid on or before the 5th day of each calendar month, commencing from 1 May 2026. In the event of delay in payment, the Tenant shall be liable to pay a late fee of ₹500 per day after a 3-day grace period as liquidated damages. If the Tenant's monthly rent payment exceeds ₹50,000, the Tenant is reminded of the obligation to deduct TDS at 5% under Section 194-IB of the Income Tax Act, 1961, and deposit the same with the Income Tax authorities. The Landlord shall furnish the Tenant with a PAN card copy for this purpose. In addition to rent, the Tenant shall pay a monthly maintenance charge of 3,000.00 INR, covering common area maintenance and society charges, as applicable.
3.
SECURITY DEPOSIT
The Tenant has paid / shall pay to the Landlord a refundable security deposit of 1,80,000.00 INR ("Deposit"). The Deposit shall be held by the Landlord as security for the due performance of the Tenant's obligations under this Agreement and shall carry no interest. The Landlord shall refund the Deposit (less permissible deductions) within 15 days after the Tenant delivers vacant possession of the Premises and all keys to the Landlord, and settles all outstanding dues. If the Tenant vacates the Premises during the lock-in period of 6 months, the Landlord shall be entitled to forfeit a portion of the Deposit equivalent to the rent for the balance of the lock-in period, as liquidated damages.
4.
UTILITIES
The Tenant shall be solely responsible for payment of all utility charges, including electricity, water, gas, and any other services consumed at the Premises, directly to the respective service providers. The Landlord shall not be responsible for any utility dues accrued during the tenancy.
5.
FURNISHING AND PARKING
The Premises are let in a semi-furnished condition. The Landlord and the Tenant shall conduct a joint inspection of the Premises at the time of handover and record the condition of all fixtures and fittings in a handover checklist. Any damage to the furnishing items beyond fair wear and tear shall be the responsibility of the Tenant and may be deducted from the security deposit.
Furnishing Inventory (included in rent):
Modular kitchen with hob and chimney
Split AC (1.5 Ton) — Samsung in master bedroom
Instant water heater in all bathrooms
Wardrobe in master bedroom (3-door)
Bed frame (king size, without mattress) in master bedroom
Ceiling fans in all rooms
Parking: One dedicated parking space is included in the rent at no additional charge.
Furnishing Inventory (included in rent):
Modular kitchen with hob and chimney
Split AC (1.5 Ton) — Samsung in master bedroom
Instant water heater in all bathrooms
Wardrobe in master bedroom (3-door)
Bed frame (king size, without mattress) in master bedroom
Ceiling fans in all rooms
Parking: One dedicated parking space is included in the rent at no additional charge.
6.
TENANT OBLIGATIONS (TPA 1882 S. 108)
The Tenant shall: (a) use the Premises as an ordinary prudent resident and shall not cause or permit any waste, damage, or nuisance to the Premises or common areas (TPA 1882 s. 108(l)); (b) not make any structural alterations, additions, or improvements to the Premises without the prior written consent of the Landlord (TPA 1882 s. 108(m)); (c) keep the Premises in good and clean condition, maintaining the same standard of cleanliness as at the commencement of tenancy; (d) not use the Premises for any unlawful, immoral, or illegal purpose; (e) comply with all applicable laws, local body regulations, and society by-laws pertaining to residential use; (f) pay all applicable charges as stipulated herein; and (g) permit the Landlord or the Landlord's authorised representative to enter the Premises at reasonable times during daylight hours, upon giving at least 24 hours' prior notice, for the purpose of inspection or repairs (TPA 1882 s. 108(n)). The Tenant shall not keep any pets, animals, or birds in the Premises without the prior written consent of the Landlord. The Tenant shall not sublet, assign, or part with possession of the Premises or any part thereof without the prior written consent of the Landlord; any subletting without consent shall be void and shall entitle the Landlord to terminate this Agreement forthwith.
7.
TERMINATION AND RENEWAL
Either Party may terminate this Agreement upon giving 30 days' written notice to the other Party, to be served by registered post or courier to the addresses set out herein. Neither Party may terminate this Agreement during the lock-in period of 6 months from the commencement date, except for material breach. The Tenant shall give at least 30 days' advance notice of vacation and shall deliver vacant possession of the Premises on or before the date specified in such notice.
Renewal: Upon expiry of this Agreement, the rent for the renewed term shall be increased by 5% per annum. Either party wishing to renew must notify the other in writing at least 30 days before expiry. Additional renewal terms: Either party wishing to renew must notify the other in writing at least 30 days before the expiry of this Agreement. Renewal shall be on mutually agreed terms, with rent increased by 5% per annum. Continued occupation after expiry without a signed renewal agreement shall be treated as a month-to-month tenancy at the last agreed rent, terminable by 30 days' notice.
Renewal: Upon expiry of this Agreement, the rent for the renewed term shall be increased by 5% per annum. Either party wishing to renew must notify the other in writing at least 30 days before expiry. Additional renewal terms: Either party wishing to renew must notify the other in writing at least 30 days before the expiry of this Agreement. Renewal shall be on mutually agreed terms, with rent increased by 5% per annum. Continued occupation after expiry without a signed renewal agreement shall be treated as a month-to-month tenancy at the last agreed rent, terminable by 30 days' notice.
8.
SECURITY DEPOSIT REFUND AND DEDUCTIONS
The Landlord shall refund the security deposit of 1,80,000.00 INR (less permissible deductions) to the Tenant within 15 days of the Tenant delivering vacant possession and all keys, and settling all outstanding dues including utility bills and society charges.
Permissible Deductions:
Permissible deductions from the security deposit:
1. Unpaid rent or maintenance charges for any period
2. Utility bills outstanding at date of vacation
3. Cost of repairing damage beyond fair wear and tear (assessed at joint exit inspection)
4. Cost of missing or damaged furnishing items per the handover checklist
5. Outstanding society dues attributable to the Tenant's period of occupation
Permissible Deductions:
Permissible deductions from the security deposit:
1. Unpaid rent or maintenance charges for any period
2. Utility bills outstanding at date of vacation
3. Cost of repairing damage beyond fair wear and tear (assessed at joint exit inspection)
4. Cost of missing or damaged furnishing items per the handover checklist
5. Outstanding society dues attributable to the Tenant's period of occupation
9.
GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of India and the applicable laws of the State of Karnataka, including the Transfer of Property Act, 1882, the Registration Act, 1908, and the applicable state Rent Control Act. Any disputes arising under or in connection with this Agreement shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts at Karnataka, including the Rent Controller having jurisdiction over the Premises.
10.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Entire Agreement: This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the Premises and supersedes all prior agreements, understandings, and representations. Amendment: Any amendment must be in writing and signed by both Parties. Severability: If any provision is found invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force. Notices: All notices under this Agreement shall be in writing and served by registered post or e-mail to the addresses set out herein. Electronic Execution: This Agreement may be executed electronically and shall be valid and enforceable under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date indicated.
LANDLORD
Suresh Venkataraman Iyer
Date: ____________________
TENANT
Ananya Krishnaswamy
Date: ____________________
WITNESS 1
Date: ____________________
WITNESS 2
Date: ____________________
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What Is a Residential Tenancy Agreement in India?
A Residential Tenancy Agreement (also called a Rent Agreement or Lease Deed for residential purposes) is a written contract between a landlord and a tenant for the letting of residential premises — a flat, apartment, independent house, or room — in India for use as a private dwelling. The agreement sets out the rent, security deposit, maintenance obligations, the term of the tenancy, and the rights and obligations of both parties. A written rent agreement is essential in India to prevent disputes and to establish the legal basis of the tenancy for registration, utility connections, KYC, and address proof purposes.
In India, residential tenancy law has two layers. The Transfer of Property Act 1882 (TPA) provides the general framework governing leases of immovable property. State-specific Rent Control Acts provide additional protection for residential tenants in urban areas — these Acts restrict the grounds on which a landlord can evict a tenant, regulate rent increases, and establish the Rent Controller as the authority for eviction disputes. States with significant Rent Control Act protections for residential tenants include Delhi (Delhi Rent Control Act 1958), Karnataka (Karnataka Rent Act 2001), Tamil Nadu (Tamil Nadu Regulation of Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants Act 2017), Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and others.
For residential properties in Maharashtra, the standard arrangement is a Leave and Licence agreement (rather than a lease) to avoid the creation of tenancy rights under the Maharashtra Rent Control Act 1999. For other Indian states, a residential lease under the TPA 1882 and the applicable Rent Control Act is standard. The Government of India has enacted the Model Tenancy Act 2021 to modernise tenancy law, and states are progressively adopting new tenancy legislation aligned with this model. Residential leases in India must be stamped under the applicable state Stamp Act, and leases for more than one year must be registered under the Registration Act 1908.
What's Covered in This Residential Tenancy Agreement Template
Our India-specific residential tenancy agreement template covers all essential provisions for a legally sound residential letting.
Landlord & Tenant Details
Identifies the landlord and tenant with full names, addresses, and identity document details (Aadhaar, PAN) as required for registration.
Property Description
Describes the rented premises with full address, survey/CTS number, area, number of rooms, and the furnishing status (furnished, semi-furnished, or unfurnished).
Tenancy Term
Specifies the commencement date and term of the tenancy (typically 11 months in India to avoid compulsory registration costs, or longer with proper stamp duty and registration).
Monthly Rent in ₹
States the monthly rent in Indian Rupees, the payment due date, the mode of payment, and any annual rent escalation provision.
Security Deposit
Specifies the refundable security deposit (typically 1–3 months' rent for most Indian cities), conditions for refund, and deductions for unpaid rent and damage.
Maintenance Responsibilities
Allocates responsibility for day-to-day maintenance (tenant) and structural repairs (landlord) in accordance with the TPA 1882.
Utilities & Society Charges
States who is responsible for electricity, water, piped gas, and society maintenance charges during the tenancy.
Use Restrictions
Restricts use of the premises to residential purposes only, prohibits subletting or assigning without the landlord's written consent.
Notice Period & Termination
Specifies the notice period for termination by either party (typically 1–2 months for residential tenancies in India) and the grounds for early termination.
Stamp Duty & Registration
Notes the stamp duty obligation under the applicable state Stamp Act and the registration requirement for leases over one year under the Registration Act 1908.
Police Verification
Notes the requirement for police verification of the tenant — a standard procedure in many Indian cities and a mandatory requirement in some states.
How to Create a Residential Tenancy Agreement in India
Follow these steps to prepare a legally compliant residential rent agreement in India.
- 1
Agree on Rent & Security Deposit
Agree on the monthly rent in ₹, security deposit (typically 1–3 months' rent), payment due date, mode of payment, and any annual rent escalation. In Maharashtra, prefer a Leave and Licence structure.
- 2
Agree on Term & Notice Period
Most Indian residential tenancies are for 11 months (to avoid compulsory registration in some states). For longer terms, plan for stamp duty and registration at the Sub-Registrar's office.
- 3
Draft the Rent Agreement
Prepare the agreement covering all terms. Include furnishing inventory (for furnished premises), maintenance responsibilities, utility obligations, and termination provisions.
- 4
Pay Stamp Duty & Register (if Required)
Pay the applicable stamp duty under the state Stamp Act. For leases exceeding one year, register the agreement at the Sub-Registrar's office under the Registration Act 1908. Both parties or PoA holders must attend.
- 5
Complete Police Verification
Submit the tenant's details for police verification through the local police station or the online police verification portal (available in many Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru). Retain the verification receipt.
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Legal Considerations for Residential Tenancies in India
These are the key Indian legal requirements for residential tenancy agreements.
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified Indian advocate or legal practitioner for advice specific to your situation.
Reviewed for Indian law
State Rent Control Acts — Tenant Protections
Most Indian states have Rent Control Acts that protect urban residential tenants from eviction except on specified statutory grounds (non-payment of rent, bona fide personal need, major repairs, subletting without permission). These Acts also regulate rent increases. A landlord cannot evict a protected tenant simply by giving notice — they must prove the statutory ground before the Rent Controller. Consult the Rent Control Act applicable in your state.
Stamp Duty & Registration
Residential tenancy agreements must be stamped under the applicable state Stamp Act. Leases for more than one year must be registered under the Registration Act 1908 — an unregistered lease for over a year is inadmissible as evidence of the lease terms in Indian courts. Many landlords use 11-month agreements to avoid the registration requirement and associated costs, but registered agreements offer stronger legal protection.
Model Tenancy Act 2021
The Government of India enacted the Model Tenancy Act 2021 to provide a balanced, modern framework for residential tenancies. States adopting the Model Act must register all tenancy agreements with the Rent Authority, provide specific procedures for the Rent Court to resolve disputes, and set security deposit limits (maximum 2 months for residential properties under the Model Act). Check whether your state has adopted the Model Act or equivalent legislation.
Police Verification of Tenants
Police verification of tenants is mandatory in many Indian cities and states. In Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and other cities, landlords are required to submit tenant verification forms to the local police station (or through online portals) within a specified period of the tenant moving in. Failure to conduct police verification may expose the landlord to liability under applicable police regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Create a Residential Rent Agreement for India
Use Doxuno's free Residential Tenancy Agreement template to establish a clear, legally sound residential tenancy in India. Covers all essential Indian property law provisions. Download as PDF in minutes.
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