Renting a home? 8 things to check before you sign the rent agreement
Deposit, lock-in, rent increase, maintenance, notice period — what tenants and owners should agree on in writing before moving in.
Sample — edit before publishing. This is a starter article from Gottilo. Check every point for your city, add your own experience and remove this note before you publish.
A clear rent agreement protects both the tenant and the owner. Most disputes — over deposits, repairs or leaving early — happen because something was never written down.
Before you sign: the essentials
- Rent and due date — the amount, the date and how it will be paid (bank transfer keeps a record).
- Security deposit — the amount and exactly when and how it will be returned.
- Lock-in period — the months neither side can end the agreement.
- Notice period — usually one or two months for either side.
- Yearly increase — the percentage rise at renewal, agreed now.
- Maintenance and bills — who pays society maintenance, electricity, water and repairs.
- Furniture and fittings — a signed list with their condition, ideally with photos.
- Rules — pets, guests, parking and any society rules.
Register or notarise?
Many cities expect rent agreements of 12 months or more to be registered, and stamp duty applies. Rules differ by state, so check the current requirement locally — an 11-month agreement is common for this reason.
Police verification
Many cities ask owners to complete tenant police verification. It is quick, often online, and protects everyone.
Move-in day
Walk through the home together, note any damage, take dated photos and share them on email or WhatsApp. This makes the deposit refund simple later.
FAQ
How much security deposit is normal?
It varies a lot by city — from one or two months' rent in many places to more in some metros. Agree on it clearly and mention it in the agreement.
Can the owner increase rent any time?
Only as agreed in the rent agreement — that is why the yearly increase should be written down.
What if the owner does not return the deposit?
Keep the agreement, payment records and move-out photos. Send a written request first; if needed, take legal advice.
Find your next home in Tirunelveli
Browse verified listings that show when they were last confirmed — or post what you need and let owners and brokers come to you.
