Tenancy & Rent
Tenancy & Rent2 min read

Is There a National Rent Law in India? The Model Tenancy Act, Explained: Frequently Asked Questions in Mumbai

By Mishpat Legal Consultants

Updated

Where the property or matter is in Mumbai, the following is general information on common questions on is there a national rent law in india for someone in Mumbai.

Before the frequently asked questions

There is no central tenancy law applicable across India. The Model Tenancy Act 2021, approved by the Union Cabinet on 2 Jun 2021, is only a model that each state may choose to adopt or adapt.

In most cases, as of this research, only four states had adopted the Model Tenancy Act: Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam.

Frequently asked questions

Is a landlord in India legally limited to a 2-month security deposit?

Only in states that have adopted the Model Tenancy Act 2021, which include Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam. There is no national law capping security deposits.

Is the Model Tenancy Act the law everywhere in India?

No. It is a model law that individual states may adopt. Most states have not adopted it, so the position depends on where the property is located.

Relevant forums in Mumbai

  • The High Court with jurisdiction is the Bombay High Court.
  • Matters at the district level are generally handled at the Mumbai City Civil Court, or the Court of Small Causes for tenancy matters.
  • The applicable rent law is the Maharashtra Rent Control Act, 1999.
  • Registration is handled through IGR Maharashtra.

For a fuller explanation, see The Delhi Rent Control Act's ₹3,500 Exclusion: What It Means and When Is a Lease Required to Be Registered?.

If you would like this looked at against your own facts, a consultation is a reasonable next step.

This overview is general information, not legal advice. Procedures and local practice can differ, so a specific review of your matter is advisable before acting.

This page provides general information about the law in India and is not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, please consult a qualified advocate.

FAQ

Common questions

Is a landlord in India legally limited to a 2-month security deposit?

Only in states that have adopted the Model Tenancy Act 2021, which include Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam. There is no national law capping security deposits.

Is the Model Tenancy Act the law everywhere in India?

No. It is a model law that individual states may adopt. Most states have not adopted it, so the position depends on where the property is located.

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