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

If you are in Bengaluru, here is a general overview of common questions on is there a national rent law in india for someone in Bengaluru.

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 Bengaluru

• The High Court with jurisdiction is the Karnataka High Court.
• Matters at the district level are generally handled at the Bengaluru City Civil & Sessions Court, or the Court of Small Causes for rent matters.
• The applicable rent law is the Karnataka Rent Act, 1999 (as amended in 2025).
• Registration is handled through Kaveri 2.0.

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 this touches a situation you are dealing with, you are welcome to discuss it in a consultation.

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.