The central government has introduced the New Rent Rules 2025 to make renting homes in India simpler, transparent and more organised. Under these rules, both landlords and tenants must register their rent agreement online within 60 days. The rules also fix limits on security deposits, decide how and when rent can be increased, set timelines for solving disputes and clearly explain rights related to eviction, repairs, inspections and tenant protection.
The government has also asked states to upgrade their digital systems so that registration and verification can happen quickly online.
What are the biggest changes under new rules?
The biggest change is that all rent agreements must now be digitally stamped and registered online within 60 days of signing. Earlier, many states accepted handwritten contracts or physical stamp paper agreements without registration. This new rule aims to make the rental process official and prevent fraud or illegal evictions. If the agreement is not registered, a penalty starting at Rs 5,000 can be charged, depending on the state.
For residential houses, landlords cannot take more than two months’ rent as a deposit. For commercial spaces, the limit is six months. This rule is meant to reduce the burden of high deposits, especially in big cities where tenants often struggle with steep upfront payments.
Rent can only be increased after 12 months and the landlord must give a written notice at least 90 days before the hike. This rule prevents sudden or unreasonable rent increases and gives tenants time to plan or raise objections if needed.
How do these rules protect tenants?
The New Rent Rules give tenants stronger legal protection. Landlords cannot force tenants to vacate without an official eviction order from the Rent Tribunal. A landlord must also give a written notice at least 24 hours before entering or inspecting the house, protecting the tenant’s privacy.
Tenants must undergo police verification, which helps build proper records and avoid misuse of rented property. Any forceful eviction, threats, lockouts or cutting off basic services like electricity or water is now punishable by law.
If an essential repair is needed and the landlord does not fix it within 30 days of being informed, the tenant can get it repaired and deduct the cost from the rent as long as proof of expense is provided.