Want to live comfortably in a rented home? Make sure these 10 things are included in the rent agreement, and only then sign!

Buying a home is no longer easy these days. Therefore, most people prefer to rent. However, the most important thing when renting a home is to have a proper rent agreement with the landlord. Whenever a residential property is rented, the landlord includes certain important clauses in the rent agreement to prevent any fraud or misunderstanding. Tenants often make small mistakes when drafting the agreement, which later become major problems. Therefore, it is important to ensure that certain things are included in the rent agreement. Here are 10 points every tenant should include in the agreement.

1- How much is the rent?

The first and most important point in a rent agreement is the rent. It is very important to write the correct amount in the agreement, as this is the basis for future payments. It should also clearly state whether the rent includes maintenance, parking charges, or other expenses. Otherwise, arguments may arise later.

2- How much is the security deposit?

When renting a home, the landlord takes a security deposit to cover any damage to the property. Ensure the correct deposit amount is written in the agreement and also make it clear that the tenant will receive this amount back upon vacating. If any damage is incurred, the amount can be deducted accordingly.

3- Lock-in Period and Notice Period

Many agreements have a lock-in period, during which the house cannot be vacated before the stipulated time. If a tenant does so, they have to pay the full rent. Therefore, try not to include a lock-in period in residential properties. The notice period for both parties should also be clearly stated in the agreement.

4- Rules on Normal Wear and Tear

The rental agreement should state that the tenant is not responsible for normal wear and tear. Minor damages to the home can occur during extended periods, and the tenant should not be responsible for them. Only major damages should the tenant be responsible.

5- List of Amenities Available in the Home

Include a complete list of all amenities and equipment in the home, such as furniture, geysers, fans, lights, etc., in the agreement. This will prevent any confusion about which amenities were initially provided and which were not.

6- No Bills Outstanding

When drafting the rental agreement, make sure that there are no outstanding bills on the home. Be it electricity, society maintenance, or water bills. If these are not cleared upfront, you may have to pay them later.

7- Renewal and Rent Increases

The agreement should clearly state when the rental agreement will be renewed and how much the rent will increase upon renewal. Many people forget this point, and a sudden higher rent demand later leads to disputes.

8- Who will pay for the agreement?

Preparing a rent agreement involves some expense. Decide in advance who will bear this expense – the tenant or the landlord? Usually, the landlord pays the agreement costs, but in some cases, the tenant is also charged.

9- What will the property be used for?

The agreement should also state the purpose for which the home can be used. For example, for living only or as a small office. If you intend to use the home for a specific purpose, it is important to include this in the agreement in advance.

10- Information on Restrictions

The rent agreement should state all restrictions. Such as not subletting the house to anyone else, not making major renovations to the house, etc. This eliminates the possibility of any further disputes.