Bengaluru renters clap 'unfair' charges by landlords, say there is no 'agreement' | Today news

While real estate prices are rising in Bengaluru, a growing number of tenants express frustration over what they call a ‘unspoken scam’ – rural that weakens security deposits without clear justification when tenants pull out. Many report vague reasons such as “wall marks”, “normal use damage”, or a minor issue of cleanliness cited for these inferences. Often, tenants say that there are no formal agreements that set out such charges, which they feel powerless and blinded. “This is the biggest scam in Bangalore,” wrote AK Mandhan, an investment adviser, on the social media platform X. ‘If you leave an apartment, the owner only sends you a fraction of your security deposit, with’ damage ‘or something vague – despite no evidence. I lived in maybe ten apartments, and this illegal retention happened every time. ‘ Mandhan is not alone to face this issue. Many tenants across Bengaluru tell comparable experiences, where landlords withhold significant parts of their security deposits, using explanations such as ‘wall stains’, ‘wear and tear’ or minor cleaning tasks. There is often no documentation that sets out these deductions, and tenants feel that the charges are being imposed unfairly and without space for discussion. How much does landlords ask as security deposits? In Bengaluru, tenants usually have to lay down security deposits, equivalent to six to ten months. For those who pay £ 40,000 monthly, it means a solid amount between £ 2.4 lakh and £ 4 lakh. According to a report by Hindustan Times, a deduction of only 20% at the exit can mean a significant loss. Although awareness of unfair deposit practices increases, tenants still find themselves with inconsistent norms. While the accepted standard ranges from six to nine months, many tenants claim that landlords are almost double asking, which can further impede the affordability in an already expensive market. The reason for buying a home for many investors, buying a home is not just about investing – it’s also about recycling peace of mind, Redditors says. “I’m done with bad landlords, annoying roommates and endless arguments about deposits that are withheld for something as slight as a scratch against the wall,” said one Reddit user, thinking about their decision to buy a home. “No longer to deal with landlords who ignore or disappear recovery requests if something is needed. No more lifestyle compromises, such as debates about vegetables or non-vegetables.” For this homeowner, the decision to buy was not only financially, but deeply personal. “I did my interior as I wanted to. I live in a space that works for me, not one I have to adapt to. I thank myself every day that I had the foresight to buy. Especially now, with rental prices varying wildlife. ‘ First published: 18 Apr 2025, 11:33 am Ist