Tips for tenants before renting a property

The process of renting a property may appear straightforward at first, but it can quickly become overwhelming if you overlook some important details that must be taken into account before moving in. Even though the paperwork in a rental agreement may be overlooked, the consequences for tenants are far worse if some important details are not included. Before you rent an apartment, it's important to verify ownership legally in addition to seeing the flat's exterior and interior.

The Rent Control Act was passed by the Indian government to limit rent costs and defend tenants s' rights against forcible eviction.

Although the state legislature makes this law, it is built on the principles of certain rights that landowners and tenants have.

You must keep an eye out for specific details that ensure a secure transaction before renting a home. 

Here, we provide you with some helpful advice that will make it simple for you to locate a rental home and allow you to deal with the landlord or other rent-related concerns.

Conduct an area inspection

Your first step should be to choose a suitable area for your accommodations. You must ensure that your selected location has good infrastructure and is furnished with all the essential facilities such as:

• Water Supply
• Power Supply
• Medical facilities
• Transport system
• Market

If you have kids, you must ensure that there is a school close by or reliable transportation to a school further away. And make a quick analysis of neighbors as you'll often have to deal with them.

Guide for searching for a property

Finding a rental home in the specified area after choosing a location is a challenge. There are several ways to find a rental home, including:

• Classified ads
• Real Estate Websites
• Real estate brokers or consultants (they charge a commission which is usually a one-month rent)

Survey the property:

 If you've decided to rent a property, the next crucial step is to conduct a thorough inspection of the property.

• Ask your neighbors if all the essential amenities are available by going and speaking with them.
• Make an effort to learn about the landlord's treatment of the other tenants.
• Verify the safety precautions.
• Check to see whether any repairs are required.

Make no hesitation to negotiate or bargain:

After satisfying your curiosity about the rented home's location and condition, you need to decide on the rent payment. Never be afraid to haggle over the rent or the security deposit. Get familiar with the current market rates in that particular location before discussing the rent amount.

Always involve Rental Agreement:

Make a complete lease agreement that specifies all the rental details, such as the monthly rent, security deposit, and any house rules or restrictions. Keep a copy of the terms and conditions of the rental contract. If a document contains words you do not understand or disagree with, do not sign it. Before you sign this paperwork and move in, let the landlord know that the terms are unacceptable and ask that they be changed. If not, it will be too late to make any adjustments. Additionally, enquire about the required deposit and the reasons the landlord can retain it.

Check for a property dispute

Tenants must check for any property disputes before renting a home in India. This can be done by researching the property's title deeds and checking for any legal issues or pending court cases. It is also a good idea to speak with the local authorities or a lawyer to ensure that the property is not subject to any disputes or claims. Additionally, verifying the owner's details and documentation is advisable before signing any agreement.

Do not compromise on the condition of the house: 

It's a good idea to avoid the house if it is internally in disrepair. If you look closely, you can see the cracks and water damage the owner occasionally tries to cover up with a fresh coat of paint. Ask the owner to paint the house if it still needs to be done. Painting the home before new tenants move in is normal. Find out when the painting was finished if the owner claims it is finished. If the painting appears to be subpar, this will indicate that the help the landlord has employed is inadequate, and it may also indicate that other things like the plumbing, electrical wiring, etc., that he has installed are subpar.

Do a security check-up:

In addition to ensuring the neighborhood is secure, you should determine whether the home has adequate safety and security systems. Check if the building has security guards, CCTV, intercom systems, etc. or if a security management system like NoBroker Hood is installed. Look for window grills, door locks, smoke alarms, sprinklers, and other safety features in the home.

Ensure extensive parking area

If the residence includes a vehicle or bike parking spot, you should ask the landlord if the space is covered and if there is an additional cost. If the home lacks parking, you must check if the building has any available rooms you could rent out.

Ask for broadband or Wifi connection

It's best to see if there is an existing connection to the house if you depend on the internet for a job or leisure. If not, find out who the finest service provider in the area is and how long it would take them to set up if there isn't one. Setting this up before moving in could save time if you are aware of this information beforehand.

Get your documents organized properly

• The contract must include your name, the landlord's name, the deposit amount, the tenure of the lease, and the monthly rent.
• Obtain the NOC from the owner and society.
• Get it Notarized by using a reputable advocate.

Know the Local Laws

You can learn more about the specific legislation that different Indian states follow to avoid Landlord and Tenants Dispute. Be sure to read them before you sign the contract.

1. The Maharashtra Rent Control Act, 1999.

2. The Delhi Rent Act, 1995.

3. The West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act, 1997.

4. The Tamil Nadu Buildings (Lease and Rent Control) Act, 1960.

5. The Karnataka Rent Control Act, 2001. 

Some other useful tips:

• Choose a place close to your work location or good access to the city.
• Ensure essential stores, such as pharmacies, grocery stores, banks, and ATMs, are close by.
• If you decide to live with roommates, be sure they are emotionally stable.
• The earthing should be done correctly, and the house should be in good shape.
• To avoid unforeseen circumstances, discuss the length of the lease, the deposit amount, and the rent in advance with the landlord.