The renting of homes is a mutually beneficial undertaking for both homeowners as well as tenants. However, like every successful working relationship, this one also entails a set of rights and responsibilities that the two parties need to be aware of. This can help prevent a range of major and minor legal disputes and common misunderstandings that can take place in the absence of this information.
Here are some of the most important rights and responsibilities that landlords and tenants must know about.
1. The basic amenities and provisions that the landlord must arrange for
As per the Leave and License Agreement between the landlord and tenant, the landlord must provide the tenant with the following rights and privileges.
· The precise details of the licensed premises (the property being leased), including the floor and carpet area, access to common areas and residential amenities, and information regarding the parking facility.
· The landlord must cooperate in the process of having the lease agreement legally stamped and registered at the sub-registrar's office.
Once the agreement has been signed, the landlord must allow the tenant uninterrupted use and
occupation of the property for as long as the lease is valid (except in the case of extenuating
circumstances).
· The landlord should assure the tenant of safety and privacy on the property, and should not inhibit the
use of the residential amenities.
· Above all, the lease agreement must entitle the tenant to rightfully enjoy the use of the property and
the associated amenities.
At the same time, it is incumbent upon the tenant to thoroughly inspect the property before moving in,
in order to point out any existing damage, leakage or missing essentials to the landlord. The landlord
must, then, have these things attended to. As a tenant, it is also within your right to request for the
walls to be repainted before you move in.
2. The details of the security deposit and when it should be handed over
The security deposit is typically an amount equal to one to three months' rent (inclusive of
administrative fee), and should be handed over to the landlord by the tenant before he/she moves into
the property. The security deposit safeguards the rights of the landlord while the tenant occupies the
accommodation, and is duly returned to the tenant upon vacating the property.
3. Who is to bear the cost of repairs in the rental home?
In most cases, it is the landlord who bears the cost of repairs required in the home-especially in the
case of structural damage and repair. However, in the instances of smaller damage caused by wear and
tear, it is usually the tenant who pays for the repair required. However, it is recommended the two
parties come to a clear understanding of the various instances where the repair will be required and who
will bear the cost for the same.