Rental Agreements in India: Meaning, Format, Online Registration and Legal Validity in 2026

Renting a house is a major step towards independence in India, and the excitement of this can quickly turn to stress due to misunderstandings about the rental contract. Bad drafting of an agreement can make tenants and landlords lose their peace of mind when clauses are unclear or when the agreement involves legal risks. A properly drafted rental contract safeguards the rights, defines the responsibilities, and prevents future conflicts. It is easier and safer to rent online, as everyone knows the proper procedure, legal regulations, and the online registration process. Being a first-time tenant or property owner, understanding the nature of rental agreements in India can help you make informed decisions, prevent misunderstandings, and establish a clear, mutually trusting relationship when using the property as a tenant.

What is a Rental Agreement?

A rent agreement is a contractual document which gives the terms and conditions under which property is rented by a tenant to a landlord. It provides such crucial information as rent, payment terms, and security deposit, number of years to be spent, and policies on maintenance and termination. This contract helps secure the rights and interests of both parties by establishing clear expectations and minimising the likelihood of disputes. In India, the terms of a rental agreement are typically agreed upon for 11 months and must conform to local rent laws. An effective, signed rental contract is strong legal evidence in the event of misunderstandings or legal complications. [1]

Why a Rental Agreement is Important for Landlords and Tenants?

A rental agreement is the foundation of a smooth rental relationship, ensuring clarity, security, and legal protection for both landlords and tenants throughout the tenancy. Here is why a rental agreement is essential for landlords and tenants:

• Legal protection for both parties: It safeguards the rights of landlords and tenants by clearly stating legally enforceable terms and conditions.
• Prevents disputes and misunderstandings: Written clauses reduce confusion around rent, repairs, duration, and exit terms, helping avoid conflicts.
• Acts as proof of residence: A registered rental agreement is widely accepted as valid address proof.
• Required for police verification, banking, and official use: It is essential for police tenant verification, opening bank accounts, applying for loans, SIM cards, and government services.
• Clearly covers rent, deposit, notice period, and responsibilities: All financial and maintenance obligations are transparently defined to avoid future disagreements.
• Defines tenancy duration and exit terms: It protects tenants from sudden eviction and landlords from unexpected vacancy.
• Clarifies maintenance and utility payments: Clearly mentions who handles repairs, electricity, water, and other charges for hassle-free living.

Types of Rental Agreements in India

Different rental agreements are used in India based on the property type, rental duration, and legal requirements. Here are the most common types you should know:

• 11-month rent agreement: A short-term residential contract is often used to avoid the obligatory registration, which is common for houses and apartments.
• Registered rental agreement: A contract that is registered and has better legal enforceability, and which is advisable in the case of long-term rentals or properties of high value.
• Lease agreement: A long-term agreement, which is over one year, and in which property is rented, whether to live or to operate a business under well-established conditions.
• Leave and license agreement: Allows landlords to have greater flexibility and better control of the property by granting them the right to occupy without any ownership rights.
• Commercial rental agreement: Employed in the shops, offices, and business areas to define rent, lease term, the terms of use, and business duties.

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Difference Between Lease Agreement and Rental Agreement

The table below compares lease agreements and rental agreements based on duration, registration requirements, flexibility, and common use cases to help you understand their practical differences easily:

Feature	Lease Agreement	Rental Agreement
Duration	Long-term contract, usually for 1 year or more	Short-term contract, generally up to 11 months
Registration Requirement	Mandatory if the term exceeds 12 months	Not mandatory for agreements up to 11 months (recommended for legal safety)
Flexibility	Less flexible, difficult to modify or terminate early	More flexible, easier to revise terms or terminate
Common Use Cases	Long-term commercial properties or extended residential stays	Short-term residential arrangements
Rent Revision	Rent remains fixed for the lease period	Rent can be revised with prior notice

Documents Required for Rental Agreement

To create and register a rental agreement, both the landlord and tenant must provide the following documents:

• Identity proof of landlord (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, or Voter ID)
• Identity proof of tenant (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, or Voter ID)
• Address proof of landlord
• Address proof of tenant
• Passport-size photographs of both parties
• Property ownership proof (Sale Deed, Title Deed, or Property Tax Receipt)
• The latest electricity bill or utility bill of the rented property
• Two witness identity proofs (if required for registration)
• Signed copy of the rental agreement (if offline registration)
• Stamp duty payment receipt or e-stamp paper

How to Create and Execute a Rental Agreement in India?

To make a valid rental agreement enforceable and dispute-free in India, there are a few steps that have to be undertaken, legal and practical:

• Write the contract attentively: Provide important information such as the names of the parties, the house address, the rent amount, the security deposit, the tenure, the notice period, and the responsibilities.
• Select the right type of agreement: The duration of the use and the use determine the decision to be made on whether it is an 11-month agreement, registered rental agreement, lease, or license.
• Use proper stamp paper: Get the agreement printed on stamp paper of the value indicated by the various state laws.
• Ask both parties and witnesses to sign: The agreement must be signed by the landlord, the tenant, and two witnesses to be valid.
• Register the agreement where necessary: Contracts that are more than 11 months old must be registered at the Sub Registrar's office in the locality or online through the registration service.
• Police Verification for Safety: Police verification of tenants is compulsory in most cities, and it must be signed upon completion.
• Make copies available to them both: Get signed copies, so that the legal and personal records of both the landlord and the tenant are obtained.

There are several steps to follow before a legally enforceable rental agreement can be drawn up to safeguard the interests of both landlords and tenants.

Stamp Duty and Registration Charges for Rent Agreement

Stamp duty and registration charges make a rent agreement legally enforceable and vary across states based on rent value and agreement duration. Below are commonly applicable charges in major Indian states for easy understanding.

State	Stamp Duty Charges	Registration Charges
Maharashtra	0.25% of the total rent for the agreement period	₹1,000
Karnataka	1% of annual rent plus deposit (max ₹500)	1% of annual rent
Tamil Nadu	1% of annual rent	1% of annual rent or ₹1,000
Delhi	2% of annual rent	₹1,100
Telangana	0.4% of total rent	₹200
West Bengal	1% of annual rent	₹1,000

Note: Charges may change based on local laws, rent value, and tenure. Always verify with the respective state registration department before execution.

Benefits of Online Registration of Rent Agreement

Here are some of the benefits of registering a rent agreement online:

• Convenience: Online registration allows landlords and tenants to complete the process from the comfort of their homes or offices, eliminating the need for physical visits to government offices. This convenience is particularly helpful for those who have busy schedules or live far from registration offices.
• Time-Saving: Online registration can expedite the process, reducing the time required for document submission, verification, and approval. It can significantly cut down on the administrative delays associated with manual processes.
• Reduced Administrative Hassles: Online registration minimises paperwork and manual record-keeping. This can help reduce errors, enhance accuracy, and simplify the overall process.
• Transparency: Online platforms often provide clear guidelines and instructions for completing the registration process. This transparency helps users understand the steps involved and the documents required.
• Document Security: Online platforms usually employ secure encryption and authentication methods to protect sensitive information and documents. This can help prevent tampering, loss, or misplacement of documents.
• Verification: Online registration typically involves thorough verification of the provided information, which can help reduce the chances of fraudulent agreements. Verification can include checks on identity, property details, and other relevant information.
• Remote Access: Online registration allows parties involved in the rental agreement to access and review the agreement details remotely. This is especially useful if the landlord or tenant is not located in the same city or area.
• Legal Validity: Online registered rental agreements have the same legal validity as traditionally registered agreements. This provides a sense of security to both landlords and tenants in case of any disputes or legal issues.
• Electronic Copies: Online platforms often provide the option to download and print electronic copies of the registered agreement. This can be useful for record-keeping and future reference.

11 Months Rental Agreement Format in Word

A standard rental agreement template in India includes details of the landlord and tenant, property information, rent, security deposit, duration, terms of use, and termination conditions in a legally structured layout:

1. RENTAL AGREEMENT IN ENGLISH

This Rental Agreement is made and executed on this ___ day of ____, 20 at __________.Between

Mr./Ms. __________________________,
S/o / D/o __________________________,
Residing at ________________________,
Hereinafter referred to as the “Lessor/Landlord” (which expression shall include his/her heirs, successors and assigns)

AND

Mr./Ms. __________________________,
S/o / D/o __________________________,
Residing at ________________________,
Hereinafter referred to as the “Lessee/Tenant” (which expression shall include his/her heirs, successors and assigns).

1. Property Description
The landlord hereby agrees to rent the property situated at:

2. Term of Agreement
This agreement shall be valid for a period of ___ months commencing from //____ and ending on //____.

3. Rent
The tenant shall pay a monthly rent of ₹________ on or before the ___ day of each month.

4. Security Deposit
The tenant shall pay a refundable security deposit of ₹________ to the landlord at the time of execution of this agreement.

5. Use of Premises
The premises shall be used only for residential purposes and not for any illegal or commercial activity.

6. Maintenance and Utilities
The tenant shall pay electricity, water charges, and other utility bills as per actual consumption.

7. Termination
Either party may terminate this agreement by giving ___ days’ prior written notice to the other party

8. Registration and Stamp Duty
Stamp duty and registration charges shall be borne by ___________________.

9. Governing Law
This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of India.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, both parties have signed this agreement on the date and place mentioned above.

Landlord Signature: _______________________
Tenant Signature: _______________________

Witness 1: _____________________________
Witness 2: _____________________________

2. Rental Agreement Format in Hindi

Below is a standard rental agreement format in Hindi that includes all essential terms and conditions between the landlord and the tenant:

यह रेंट एग्रीमेंट ________________ (मकान मालिक का नाम) S / o _______________ (जमींदार के पिता का नाम), _________________________________________________________ (मकान मालिक का आवासीय पता) द्वारा इस __________ (किराए के समझौते की तारीख) पर बनाया गया है। इस प्रकार एफेट्रस भाग के लेसर / मालिक को पार्टी कहा जाता है

तथा

_____________________________ (प्रस्तावित कंपनी का नाम) , अपने प्रस्तावित निदेशक के माध्यम से __________ (निदेशक का नाम) जिसे लेस / टेनेंट कहा जाता है, पार्टी ऑफ़ द सेकंड पार्ट

शब्द की अभिव्यक्ति, लेस्सर / मालिक और लेस / टेनेंट शेल का मतलब है और उनके कानूनी उत्तराधिकारी उत्तराधिकारी, असाइन, प्रतिनिधि आदि शामिल हैं, जबकि लेसर / मालिक मालिक है और संपत्ति के कब्जे में है: ______________

_________________________________________________________________________________________ (कंपनी का पंजीकृत पता) और लेसियन / टेनेंट के लिए एक कार्यालय कक्ष, एक शौचालय और स्नानघर सेट को बाहर जाने के लिए सहमत हो गया है, पट्टेदार / किरायेदार और पट्टेदार / किरायेदार ने रुपये के किराए पर समान लेने के लिए सहमति दी है ______ / - (शब्दों में) प्रति माह।

अब इस समझौते के रूप में इस किराए पर लेने की आवश्यकता है:

1. कि किरायेदार / पट्टेदार बिजली और पानी के प्रभार को छोड़कर, प्रति माह _________ / - (शब्दों में) के मासिक किराए के रूप में भुगतान करेंगे।
2. टेनेंट / लेसी उप-स्वामी को उपर्युक्त के किसी भी हिस्से को किसी भी परिस्थिति में मालिक की सहमति के बिना किसी भी स्थिति में उप-नहीं करेगा।
3. यह कि किरायेदार / पट्टेदार सभी उप-कानूनों, नियमों और विनियमन का पालन करेंगे, स्थानीय अधिकारियों के लिए निर्धारित परिसर के संबंध में और उक्त निर्धारित परिसर में कोई भी अवैध गतिविधियां नहीं करेंगे।
4. यह लीज केवल ग्यारह (11) महीने की अवधि के लिए दी जाती है, जो केवल ___________ (किराए पर लेने की तारीख) से शुरू होती है और इस पट्टे को बाजार में प्रचलित किराये के मूल्य के आधार पर अपनी आपसी सहमति से दोनों पक्षों द्वारा आगे बढ़ाया जा सकता है। ।
5. कि पट्टेदार / मालिक को मीटर की आनुपातिक खपत के अनुसार बिजली और जल प्रभार का भुगतान करेगा।
6. कि किरायेदार / पट्टेदार किराए के परिसर में संरचना बनाने के हकदार नहीं होंगे, केवल अस्थायी सजावट, लकड़ी के विभाजन / केबिन, एयर - कंडिशनअपसेट की स्थापना को छोड़कर। मालिक की पूर्व सहमति के बिना।
7. यह कि किरायेदार / पट्टेदार स्वामी की लिखित सहमति के बिना उक्त परिसर में न तो जोड़ / परिवर्तन कर सकता है, और न ही पट्टेदार किसी भी गड़बड़ी (फर्मों) / फर्म (एस) / कंपनी (ओं) को भाग या पूरे परिसर को सौंप सकता है।
8. यह कि किरायेदार / पट्टेदार किसी भी उचित समय पर निरीक्षण / सामान्य जाँच के लिए या मरम्मत के काम को करने के लिए लेसर / मालिक या उसके अधिकृत एजेंट को उक्त किरायेदार परिसर में प्रवेश करने की अनुमति देगा।
9. कि किरायेदार / पाठी उक्त परिसर को स्वच्छ और स्वच्छ स्थिति में रखेगा और ऐसा कोई कार्य नहीं करेगा या करने का कारण नहीं होगा जो अन्य के लिए एक उपद्रव हो सकता है।
10. कि किरायेदार / पट्टेदार पूरे दिन अपनी मरम्मत के लिए मामूली मरम्मत का काम करेंगे।
11. कि इस आशय के लिए किसी भी पक्ष द्वारा एक महीने पहले नोटिस देकर इस किरायेदारी की अवधि समाप्त होने से पहले इस समझौते को समाप्त किया जा सकता है।
12. पट्टिका आधिकारिक प्रयोजन के लिए उपर्युक्त परिसर का उपयोग करेगी।
13. यह है कि पट्टेदार / किरायेदार किसी भी आक्रामक, खतरनाक, विस्फोटक या अत्यधिक भड़काऊ लेखों को संग्रहीत नहीं करेगा / करेगा और किसी भी गैरकानूनी गतिविधियों के लिए उसका उपयोग नहीं करेगा।
14. कि पट्टेदार को एक महीने का अग्रिम किराया चुकाना होगा, वही मासिक किराए में समायोजित किया जाएगा।
15. कि दोनों पक्षों ने इस समझौते की सभी सामग्रियों को पढ़ा और समझा है और बिना किसी बल या दबाव के किसी भी पक्ष से हस्ताक्षर किए हैं।

निम्नलिखित में, साक्षी / मालिक और किरायेदार / पट्टिका ने अपने हाथों को ______ (स्थान) पर इस _____________ (किराया समझौते की तिथि) पर सदस्यता दी है, जो निम्नलिखित गवाहों के प्रस्तुतिकरण में उल्लेखित है।

विटनेस: -

1।

2।

___________ (मकान मालिक का नाम) _________________ (प्रस्तावित कंपनी का नाम)

Registered Rent Agreement VS Notarised Rent Agreement

The table below compares a registered rent agreement and a notarised rent agreement based on process, authority, document access, and legal validity to help you understand their key differences:

Aspect	Registered Rent Agreement	Notarised Rent Agreement
Process	Signed by both parties, then submitted to the Government's Registrar's Office for registration.	Attested by a public notary to verify the identities of both parties.
Authority	Conducted by the office of the Sub Registrar for the specific area.	Conducted by a public notary.
Presence of Parties	Both landlord and tenant must be present during the execution.	Both landlord and tenant must be present during the execution.
Document Access	Becomes a public document accessible for legal procedures.	Not a public document, access is limited to involved parties.
Notary's Role	A public notary's involvement is not required.	A public notary attests to the identities of the parties.
Notary's Verification	Not applicable.	A notary verifies identities, not the entire contract.
Notary's Stamp/Seal	Not applicable.	The notary provides a stamp, seal, and signature on the last page.
Legal Validity	Has legal validity due to registration with the government.	Has legal validity, but is limited to notarisation verification.

Things to Keep in Mind While Making a Rental Contract

When dealing with rental agreements in India, there are several key considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and legally sound renting experience. Here are eight important points to remember:

• Clarity is Key: Ensure that the rental agreement is clear and concise, leaving no room for ambiguity. Both parties should fully understand their rights, responsibilities, and obligations.
• Thorough Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of ownership, identification, and address proofs, to facilitate the registration process and validate the agreement's authenticity.
• Legal Compliance: Adhere to the legal requirements of the Registration Act, especially for agreements lasting more than 12 months. Properly registered agreements offer legal protection and prevent disputes.
• Understand Rent Calculation: Have a clear understanding of how the rent is calculated, including any potential increases due to repairs or renovations. Transparency in rent calculations can prevent conflicts later on.
• Deposit Handling: Clearly outline the terms related to the security deposit. Understand the conditions under which the deposit will be refunded or used for repairs and damages.
• Stay Updated: Keep yourself informed about local rent control laws and regulations. Being aware of your rights and limitations can help you make informed decisions throughout the renting journey.

Rent Agreement: Important Terms and Conditions for Tenant and Landlord

Renting a house in India comes with a set of rules that both landlords and tenants need to abide by. The rental agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy. Here are some essential terms and conditions that both parties should be aware of:

• Parties to the Agreement: Identify the landlord (property owner) and the tenant (person renting the property) by their full names and addresses.
• Property Details: Provide a detailed description of the rented property, including its address, type, size, and any unique features.
• Term of the Lease: Clearly state the start date and the duration of the lease (usually expressed in months or years). Also, mention the process for lease renewal or termination.
• Rent Amount and Payment Terms: Specify the monthly rent amount, due date, and acceptable methods of payment. Mention any late payment charges and the consequences of repeated non-payment.
• Security Deposit: Explain the purpose of the security deposit, the amount, and the conditions under which it will be refunded or used for repairs/damages.
• Utilities and Maintenance: Clarify which utilities (water, electricity, gas, etc.) are included in the rent and which are to be paid separately. Define responsibilities for property maintenance and repairs.
• Use of the Property: State whether the property will be used for residential or commercial purposes. Outline any restrictions on alterations, subletting, or unauthorised occupants.
• Tenant Responsibilities: Detail tenant obligations such as keeping the property clean, adhering to society rules, and not causing disturbances to neighbours.
• Landlord Responsibilities: Enumerate the landlord's responsibilities, including providing habitable living conditions, addressing repairs, and respecting the tenant's privacy.
• Termination and Notice Period: Specify the notice period required for both the landlord and the tenant to terminate the agreement. Also, outline the conditions under which the landlord can terminate the lease.
• Entry and Inspections: Explain the circumstances under which the landlord can enter the property (e.g., for repairs) and provide notice requirements.
• Renewal and Changes: Describe the process for lease renewal, potential rent adjustments, and any changes to the terms of the agreement.
• Legal Actions and Dispute Resolution: Outline the procedures for resolving disputes, including mediation or legal actions, and specify the jurisdiction where disputes will be addressed.
• Force Majeure Clause: Consider including a clause that addresses unforeseen events (such as natural disasters) that may affect the rental arrangement.
• Governing Law: Mention the applicable laws and regulations that govern the rental agreement, typically based on the state or union territory.
• Signatures and Witnesses: Include spaces for both parties' signatures and any witnesses' signatures. Signatures validate the agreement's authenticity.
• Pet Policy: The rental agreement may specify whether or not pets are allowed on the property, and if so, what type of pets and how many.
• Parking policy: The rental agreement may specify whether or not parking is available on the property, and if so, how much it costs.
• Move-in and move-out procedures: The rental agreement may specify the procedures for moving in and moving out of the property, such as when the tenant must give notice and when the landlord must return the security deposit.

NoBroker Rental Agreement Services: If you are a landlord or a tenant, NoBroker offers a hassle-free way to create a rental agreement. Our rental agreement format is legally binding and includes all the essential terms and conditions that you need. You can also customise the agreement to suit your specific requirements.

Rent Hike Rules and Legal Limitations in India

Rent increase regulations in India are set to balance not only landlords' returns but also tenants' protection, and it is obligatory to consider these legal boundaries, notice requirements, and the rights of landlords and tenants before accepting the terms of rent increases or even using them. The most important legal points and credible sources which describe the regulations of rent increases and safeguards granted to tenants in India are:

• Rent Control Act reference: Covers state Rent Control Acts, Model Tenancy Act discussions, and the legal framework governing landlord-tenant relationships. [2]
• Notice period requirement: Explains new renting rules, mandatory written notice timelines before rent revision, and procedural compliance. [3]
• Maximum rent hike limits: Discusses market-linked rent increases, commonly accepted annual hike ranges, and legal constraints. [4]
• Tenant rights protection: Focuses on tenant safeguards, dispute resolution, unfair rent hike challenges, and tenancy law reforms. [5]
• State-level amendments and enforcement: Reports on state-wise rental law changes, enforcement practices, and landlord-tenant

How Can NoBroker Help?

he process of renting a place isn’t an easy one, but with a few legal steps and a little patience, two witnesses, a good landlord, and us! NoBroker will help you get a rental agreement from the comfort of your home! Just visit the link below to get your rental agreement delivered to your home! You can even drop us a comment below with any questions, and we’ll be happy to help.

Frequently Asked Questions?