Before You List
Research comparable rents on OLX, NoBroker, and Housing.com.
Take good daylight photos of every room.
Decide your tenant preference and state it in the listing.
Check your society's rules about renting out and the NOC process.
When Screening
Collect photo ID and employment proof before agreeing anything.
Call the previous landlord if possible.
Ask for PDCs if you have any hesitation about the tenant.
Watch for red flags: vagueness, urgency, resistance to documentation.
Before Move-In
Draft and register a Leave & Licence Agreement (not a basic rent agreement).
Inform the society in writing (courtesy NOC — not legally mandatory, but good practice).
Collect deposit (2 months' rent is the safest target — confirm current cap status, see FAQ) + first month's rent before handing over keys.
Do a joint walkthrough and take timestamped photos of everything.
Submit tenant police verification online at mumbaipolice.gov.in within 15 days of move-in. It's free. Download and save the PDF acknowledgement.
During the Tenancy
Give 24 hours' written notice before any visit.
Fix major repairs promptly — structure, plumbing, wiring.
Never cut off electricity or water — this is illegal.
Keep records of all communications in writing (WhatsApp is fine).
At Move-Out
Enforce the full notice period.
Do a joint inspection on the last day. Document everything.
Collect all keys, cards, and passes.
Hold part of deposit for 30–45 days for pending bills.
Refund balance deposit within one month.
Start your own listing — don't wait for brokers to find out.
Need the full context behind any step?
Each chapter covers the reasoning, the law, and the exact process.
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