Deposit disputes are the most common complaint we hear from tenants and the most common fear we hear from owners. Most of them come down to one missing thing: evidence. Here is how both sides avoid the argument.
What is normal in Kolkata
One to two months’ rent for unfurnished and semi-furnished flats across Kestopur, Baguiati, Lake Town and Dum Dum; two to three months for furnished flats in Salt Lake, New Town and near DLF. PGs take one month. The deposit is interest-free and refundable at the end of the tenancy less agreed deductions.
What can legitimately be deducted
- Unpaid rent or bills up to the day you vacate.
- Repair of damage beyond normal wear and tear: a broken window, a burnt kitchen counter, a missing fan.
- Replacement of inventory items that were signed for and are missing.
- Professional cleaning only if the agreement says so and the flat is left dirty.
Normal wear and tear (faded paint, minor scuffs, worn hinges) is not deductible. Repainting after a multi-year tenancy is generally the owner’s cost unless the agreement says otherwise.
Five habits that get the full deposit back
- Pay by bank transfer and keep the receipt or a WhatsApp acknowledgement from the owner.
- Photograph every room and every defect on move-in day and send the photos to the owner the same day so the date is on record.
- Sign an inventory for furnished flats.
- Give written notice on the date the agreement requires, by message or email, not just a phone call.
- Do a joint inspection on move-out day, agree deductions in writing, and take meter readings together.
If the owner will not pay
Send a polite written reminder quoting the agreement clause and the timeline. Most cases resolve there. If not, a legal notice through a lawyer is the next step, and small amounts can go to the consumer or civil court. In practice, the photographs and receipts you kept decide the outcome.
For owners
Write the refund timeline into the agreement, keep receipts for any repair you deduct, and refund promptly. A tenant who leaves on good terms sends you the next one.
Read the full agreement guide or browse flats for rent with clear deposit terms.
Need help now? WhatsApp +91 96148 13713 with your area, budget and move-in date and we will send matching options the same day.
