Tenancy Laws in India: What Every Renter and Landlord Should Know

If you’re living in a rented home or own a property you let out, you’ll run into tenancy laws sooner or later. These laws decide who pays for what, how long you can stay, and what happens if something goes wrong. Knowing the basics can save you time, money, and arguments.

Your Rights as a Tenant

First off, you have the right to a habit‑ready house. That means the landlord must hand over a place that is safe, has basic utilities, and matches what’s written in the agreement. If the roof leaks or the electricity fails, you can ask the landlord to fix it. In most cases, the landlord must act within a reasonable time.

Rent can’t be increased arbitrarily. The rent‑control rules in many states limit how much and how often the amount can go up. Check your state’s rent‑control act before signing a new lease.

When it comes to ending the tenancy, you usually need to give a written notice – 30 days for a month‑to‑month tenancy, or as specified in a fixed‑term contract. If the landlord wants you out, they need a court order unless the agreement allows a simpler notice period.

One question that pops up a lot is: “Can a tenant become the owner?” The short answer is no, unless you claim the property through adverse possession. In India, that usually means occupying the land openly for 12 years (the “12‑year land rule”). It’s a risky path and works only for unoccupied land, not a rented house.

Landlord Obligations & Common Disputes

Landlords have a handful of duties that are often ignored. The biggest one is maintenance. Anything that affects the structural safety of the building—like a broken stair or a leaking roof—must be fixed by the owner.

Another hot topic is painting. Who should pay for fresh paint when you move in or out? The general rule is that the landlord is responsible for the original condition, while the tenant may have to repaint if the walls are heavily damaged. A clear clause in the lease can avoid confusion.

If a tenant stops paying rent, the landlord can start eviction proceedings, but they cannot forcibly remove the tenant or shut off water or electricity. Any “self‑help” eviction is illegal and could land the landlord in trouble.

For both sides, having a written rental agreement is a lifesaver. It should list the rent amount, due date, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, notice period, and any special rules (like pet policies). When disputes arise, the agreement is the first thing a court looks at.

Practical tip: keep all communication—texts, emails, receipts—in case you need proof later. If you’re facing a problem, try to resolve it informally first. If that fails, you can approach the local rent‑control office or a consumer court.

In short, tenancy laws aim to balance the power between renters and owners. Knowing your rights, writing a solid lease, and staying calm during disagreements go a long way. For deeper dives, check out our articles on painting responsibilities, tenant ownership myths, and the 12‑year land rule. Stay informed, and your rental experience will be smoother.