Lease Renewal in India – Simple Guide to Renew Your Rental Agreement

Got a lease that’s about to end? You don’t have to scramble for a new place if you’re happy where you live. Renewing a lease in India is pretty straight‑forward as long as you know the right steps and what to watch out for.

When to Start the Renewal Process

Kick off the renewal talk at least 30‑45 days before the current lease expires. Most Indian rental contracts require a 30‑day notice, but some state laws or your own agreement might ask for more. Sending a polite email or a written notice gives both you and the landlord a clear record.

Ask yourself these quick questions: Do you want to stay at the same rent? Are you okay with a possible hike? Knowing your answers early helps you negotiate confidently.

Key Clauses to Watch Out For

When the landlord sends a new agreement, read it line by line. Look for any changes in rent amount, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, or early‑termination penalties. Even a small tweak can affect your budget.

If the rent increase seems high, check the local market. A 5‑10% rise is common in many cities, but you can always ask for justification or suggest a smaller bump.

Don’t forget the security deposit. Some landlords ask for an extra month’s rent on renewal. Verify whether that’s allowed under your state’s rent control rules.

Maintenance clauses matter too. Make sure it’s clear who pays for painting, repairs, or any upgrades during the renewed term. A clause that says “tenant responsible for all repairs” can become costly.

Once you’re satisfied, sign the new lease and keep a copy for yourself. If the landlord wants you to hand over the old agreement, make sure you get a receipt for the returned documents.

Need a written notice? A simple format works: State your name, address, current lease end date, and that you wish to renew. Mention any specific terms you want to keep or change. Send it via registered post or email with a read receipt.

If the landlord refuses to renew, they must give a valid reason as per the contract or local law. In many states, they can’t evict you without a court order, so you have protection while you look for alternatives.

Bottom line: Start early, read everything, and don’t be shy about negotiating. A well‑handled renewal saves you time, money, and the stress of moving.