Landlord Tenant Painting: Who Pays and What’s Legal?

Ever wondered if you, as a tenant, can give your rented flat a fresh coat of paint without fighting the landlord? Or does the landlord have to handle every touch‑up? The answer isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. It depends on your lease, local norms, and Indian rental law.

What the lease usually says

Most rental agreements spell out painting duties in a short clause. Look for phrases like “tenant may paint with landlord’s permission” or “landlord shall maintain interior walls.” If the lease is silent, the default rule kicks in: the landlord is responsible for structural upkeep, while the tenant handles cosmetic changes, but only with consent.

When the lease allows painting, it often adds conditions – use approved colors, hire a registered contractor, and restore the walls to their original state when you move out. Ignoring these can lead to a deduction from your security deposit.

When tenants can paint without extra cost

In many Indian cities, especially where rent is low, landlords expect tenants to keep the place tidy, which includes repainting after a few years. If you’re renewing a lease, you can negotiate a “paint‑up” clause that lets you repaint at your own expense, but the landlord can’t charge you extra rent for it.

Some landlords even offer a “paint‑first” option: they repaint before you move in and expect you to keep the paint in good condition. In that case, any damage beyond normal wear is on you.

If you’re a tenant who wants to paint without paying, ask for a written waiver. A simple note on the lease stating that the landlord won’t charge for painting can protect you later.

On the flip side, if the landlord insists on repainting the whole unit, the cost is usually on the landlord unless the lease says otherwise. Tenants shouldn’t be forced to pay for full‑unit repainting when only a small area needs fixing.

Remember, Indian law treats paint as a part of the property’s “fixtures.” That means any permanent change—like a bold wall color—needs the landlord’s okay. A fresh, neutral color is safest if you’re unsure.

If a dispute arises, you can approach the local rent control board or a consumer court. Provide a copy of the lease, photos of the walls before and after painting, and any receipts for paint or labor. Courts typically look at who authorized the work and whether the tenant restored the original condition.

Bottom line: always get painting permissions in writing, keep receipts, and understand what your lease says. This saves headaches, protects your deposit, and keeps the landlord‑tenant relationship smooth.

Got more questions about painting rights or any other rental issue? Our legal experts are ready to help you navigate Indian rental laws without the jargon.