Rent Agreement in Kerala: What to Include

Updated 25 October 2026 · 2 min read

A clear written agreement prevents most landlord–tenant disputes. This is what to cover whether you are renting out a house, a shop or a flat.

What the agreement should say

• Full names, addresses and ID details of landlord and tenant.
• Address and description of the property, and what is included (furniture, appliances, parking).
• Monthly rent, due date, payment method and the yearly increase.
• Security deposit amount, what it can be used for, and when and how it is returned.
• Term of the tenancy and the notice period for either side to leave.
• Who pays for electricity, water, association charges and repairs.
• Rules on subletting, guests, business use and alterations.

Stamp paper and registration

A rent agreement should be on stamp paper of the value required for the term and rent. A lease for more than one year must be registered under the Registration Act, which gives it full legal effect. Short agreements are often made for eleven months for this reason. Ask a document writer or lawyer for the current stamp duty.

Move-in checks

• Photograph every room, fitting and appliance, and give both sides a copy.
• Note electricity and water meter readings.
• Ask for a receipt for the deposit and for each month’s rent. Tenants claiming house-rent allowance need those receipts.
• Ask whether the local police station or the flat association needs tenant details.

Ending the tenancy

Give notice as the agreement says, clear all bills, compare the house with your move-in photos, and get the deposit back against a signed receipt. Disputes over repairs are easier when the move-in photos exist.

Tenancies of buildings in Kerala are also affected by the state’s rent-control law. For a long or commercial tenancy, take legal advice.

Our document checklist has a Renting tab you can print, and the rent vs buy calculator helps if you are wondering whether to keep renting.

General information, not legal advice.

Frequently asked questions