Elina Who is legally responsible for paying maintenance charges in a rented flat in India—the landlord or the tenant—and how is liability for maintenance expenses determined under the rent agreement, society rules, and the applicable tenancy laws?
Navya The responsibility for paying maintenance charges in a rented flat in India depends primarily on the terms of the rent agreement and, in some cases, the rules of the housing society or apartment association. Key points: Check the rent agreement: The rental agreement usually specifies whether the landlord or the tenant is responsible for paying maintenance charges. Landlord's responsibility: The landlord generally pays: Society maintenance charges (if agreed) Major repairs and structural maintenance Property taxes and other ownership-related expenses Tenant's responsibility: The tenant may be responsible for: Utility bills such as electricity, water, and gas Day-to-day maintenance expenses, if stated in the agreement Maintenance charges, if the agreement specifically places this responsibility on the tenant
