Maintenance, utilities and repairs: who pays what
Tenants · 2 min read · Updated
Most deposit disputes start with a repair or a bill nobody agreed on. A few clear lines in the agreement settle who pays what before any problem appears.
Society or building maintenance
Monthly maintenance charged by a housing society or building is often paid by the tenant on top of rent, but it can also be the landlord's cost. Say which, and whether the amount can change during the term. Property tax and major society levies are usually the owner's.
Electricity, water, gas and internet
Bills based on use are normally the tenant's. Record the meter readings on the day of move-in and move-out, and say the tenant will pay up to the handover date. Check that any pending dues in the landlord's name are cleared before you move in.
Repairs
A common split is that the tenant pays for small day-to-day repairs, such as a tap washer or a bulb, and the landlord pays for structural and major items, such as leaks or wiring faults, unless the tenant caused the damage. Put a rupee limit on what the tenant pays without asking the landlord first.
Record the condition at move-in
Attach a list of fixtures and the condition of the home, with dated photos. It makes the end-of-tenancy check much easier and limits arguments about deductions from the deposit.
- Fixtures and fittings, with working condition
- Meter readings
- Existing marks, damp or damage
- Keys handed over
Common questions
- Can the landlord charge for normal wear and tear?
- Deductions should be for damage beyond normal use and for unpaid dues. Say this in the agreement and keep the move-in record to support it.
- Who pays if the repair is urgent and the landlord is away?
- Agree a limit up front. The tenant can pay up to that amount and deduct it from the next rent with the receipt.
General information, not legal advice. Laws and procedures vary by state and change over time. Check official sources or a local lawyer before you act.