Tenants in India have several legal rights that are protected by the law. Some of these rights are:
- Security of tenure: A tenant cannot be evicted from the rented property unless the landlord has a legal ground for eviction. Even in such cases, the tenant is entitled to a notice period as per the law. The landlord must give a notice period as per the state laws, which ranges from one to six months, depending on the state.
- Reasonable rent: The landlord cannot charge an exorbitant rent from the tenant. The rent must be reasonable and commensurate with the property’s condition, location, and amenities. If the landlord charges an exorbitant rent, the tenant can approach the Rent Control Authority to seek a reduction in rent.
- Maintenance of the property: It is the landlord’s responsibility to maintain the property and ensure that it is fit for human habitation. The landlord is responsible for maintaining the property in good condition and ensuring that all basic amenities like water supply, electricity, and sanitation are provided. The landlord must carry out necessary repairs and maintenance work in a timely manner.
- Safety and security: The landlord must provide basic safety and security amenities like a proper locking system, fire safety equipment, and basic electrical safety measures. The landlord must ensure that the rented property is safe and secure for the tenant to live in. The landlord must provide basic safety measures like proper locking systems, fire safety equipment, and basic electrical safety measures.
- Privacy: The tenant has a right to privacy and the landlord cannot enter the rented property without the tenant’s permission, except in cases of emergency.
- Renewal of tenancy: The tenant has a right to renew the tenancy agreement if he/she wishes to continue staying in the property. The landlord cannot refuse to renew the agreement without a valid reason.
- No discrimination: The landlord cannot discriminate against the tenant on the basis of gender, religion, caste, or any other grounds.
These are some of the legal rights of tenants in India. In case of any violation of these rights, the tenant can approach the Rent Control Authority, Consumer Court, or Civil Court for redressal.
