10 Rights Covered
Right to a registered rent agreement
Always insist on a written and preferably registered rent agreement. Agreement over 11 months must be registered. Verbal tenancy can be proved by rent receipts and witnesses.
Right against arbitrary rent increase
Rent can be increased only as per agreed terms or as per state Rent Control Act's notice requirements. Sudden unilateral rent increase without proper notice is not enforceable.
Right against illegal eviction
Landlord cannot evict you without following legal process: proper notice as per state law, court order. Changing locks, removing belongings, or forceful eviction is a criminal offence.
Right to a receipt for every rent payment
Landlord must provide a signed receipt for every rent payment made. Keep all receipts as they are key evidence in any dispute. Demand receipt in writing even if landlord is reluctant.
Right to essential services without interruption
Landlord cannot cut off water, electricity, or other essential services as means to force vacation. Such action is an offence under BNS and grounds for police complaint as well as civil suit.
Right to security deposit refund
Security deposit must be returned within the time agreed or within 30 days of vacating (under Model Tenancy Act 2021) after deducting only legitimate, itemised, documented deductions.
Right against unannounced entry by landlord
Landlord cannot enter the rented premises without prior reasonable notice (usually 24 hours) except in genuine emergencies. Uninvited entry without notice constitutes trespass.
Right to approach Rent Authority for disputes
In states with Rent Control Acts, disputes about rent, eviction, repairs, and deposit go to Rent Controller or Rent Authority, not civil court. Faster and cheaper than regular court.
Right to subletting (if permitted in agreement)
If the agreement allows, you may sublet the premises. A total ban on even having guests is unenforceable. But subletting without permission where prohibited is a valid ground for eviction.
Right to essential repairs and habitability
Major structural repairs and essential maintenance (roof, plumbing) are the landlord's responsibility. If landlord refuses, tenant can do repairs and deduct reasonable cost from rent with notice.