Tenant’s Guide

Your complete guide to renting in Mumbai — agreements, deposits, notice periods and your rights.

Everything a tenant in Mumbai needs to know

Renting a flat in Mumbai involves a formal Leave and Licence agreement, a security deposit, and a set of rights and responsibilities for both landlord and tenant. This guide explains everything clearly — whether you are renting for the first time or moving to a new property.

The rental agreement (Leave and Licence)

In Mumbai, residential rentals are governed by a Leave and Licence Agreement (not a Tenancy Agreement). This is important because a Leave and Licence does not give you occupancy rights — it gives you a licence to use the property, which the licensor (owner) can revoke after the agreed period.

Duration

Typically 11 months (to avoid stamp duty on agreements over 12 months). Renewed annually.

Stamp Duty

Paid by the tenant. Calculated on the average monthly rent × months + refundable deposit × 10% × years.

Registration

Mandatory for agreements over 12 months. TND strongly recommends registering all agreements regardless of duration.

Notarisation

Not a substitute for registration. A notarised-only agreement has limited legal standing in court.

Security deposit in Mumbai

Notice period

Rent escalation

Most Mumbai rental agreements include an annual escalation clause of 5%–10% on renewal. This should be clearly stated in your agreement. TND manages all escalation communications on behalf of our landlords, giving tenants adequate notice before any rent increase.

Your rights as a tenant in Mumbai

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