Renting out property is a common practice in Tamil Nadu, and as a landlord, it is important to have a written rental agreement in place. A rental agreement is a legal document that specifies the terms and conditions of the rental agreement between the landlord and the tenant. The rental agreement is governed by the Tamil Nadu Regulation of Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants Act, 2017.
The Tamil Nadu Regulation of Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants Act, 2017, was enacted to regulate the relationship between landlords and tenants in the state. The act specifies the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants and lays down the procedure for the eviction of tenants.
As per the act, a landlord cannot enter the rented premises without the tenant`s prior permission, except in case of an emergency. The landlord is also responsible for ensuring that the premises are fit for habitation and are maintained in good condition. The landlord must provide basic amenities such as water supply, sanitation, and electricity to the tenant.
The rental agreement must specify the rent amount and the due date for the payment of rent. The agreement must also specify the security deposit amount and the conditions for its refund. The landlord must provide a receipt for the security deposit paid by the tenant.
The rental agreement must specify the duration of the lease and the notice period required for the termination of the lease. The notice period varies depending on the lease duration. For leases of less than one year, the notice period is one month, and for leases of more than one year, the notice period is three months.
If the tenant defaults on the payment of rent, the landlord can initiate legal proceedings for eviction. The landlord must give a notice to the tenant specifying the grounds for eviction. The tenant can file a written reply within 15 days of receiving the notice.
In case of disputes between landlords and tenants, the act provides for the appointment of rent authorities and rent courts. The rent authorities and rent courts have the power to determine the rent amount, the security deposit refund, and the eviction of tenants.
In conclusion, as a landlord in Tamil Nadu, it is essential to have a written rental agreement in place that complies with the Tamil Nadu Regulation of Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants Act, 2017. The rental agreement must specify the rent amount, the security deposit amount, and the terms and conditions of the lease. The landlord must also ensure that the rented premises are maintained in good condition, and the basic amenities are provided to the tenant. In case of disputes, the landlord can approach the rent authorities and rent courts for resolution.