Renting a flat in New Delhi has always been a rite of passage—a mix of high-speed house hunting and intense negotiations. However, as we move through December 2025, the game has changed. With the full implementation of the Home Rent Rules 2025 (based on the Model Tenancy Act), the rental market is more structured, digital, and tenant-friendly than ever before.
Whether you are looking for a breezy balcony in Dwarka, a chic studio in Hauz Khas, or a family home in Chittaranjan Park, here is your ultimate guide to the Do’s and Don’ts of renting in the capital.
The “Do’s”: Your 2025 Rental Checklist
1. DO Insist on a Digitally Registered Agreement
Under the new 2025 regulations, verbal or handwritten agreements are legally invalid. * The Rule: Every rental agreement in Delhi must now be digitally stamped and registered on the government portal within 60 days of signing.
- Why: This protects you from arbitrary eviction and ensures that the terms of your stay are legally enforceable. Failure to register can lead to a penalty of ₹5,000 for the parties involved.
2. DO Stick to the “2-Month Deposit” Cap
One of the biggest wins for tenants this year is the standardisation of security deposits.
- The Rule: For residential properties, landlords cannot ask for more than two months’ rent as a security deposit.
- Tip: If a landlord in South Delhi or Gurgaon asks for a “standard 6-month deposit,” politely remind them of the Home Rent Rules 2025. It is now illegal to demand more.
3. DO Complete Police Verification Online
In Delhi, tenant police verification is not just a suggestion; it’s a mandatory safety requirement.
- The Process: Use the Delhi Police Tenant Verification Portal. It is a seamless digital process where you upload your Aadhaar and the rent agreement.
- Penalty: Skipping this can lead to a fine of up to ₹10,000 or even an FIR against the landlord, which could jeopardise your stay.
4. DO Verify Utility Meters and Dues
Before you move a single box, check the electricity and water meters.
- Electricity: Ask for the latest bill to ensure there are no arrears. In Delhi, many residents benefit from subsidies—clarify with the landlord how these will be passed on to you.
- Water: Check if the colony relies on Delhi Jal Board (DJB) supply or private tankers. Tanker-dependent areas (common in parts of South and West Delhi) can lead to unexpected monthly costs.
The “Don’ts”: Avoid These Red Flags
1. DON’T Pay “Holding Amounts” Without a Receipt
In the heat of a Delhi “house-race,” brokers often ask for a small token amount to “block” the flat.
- The Risk: Never pay this in cash. Always use UPI or bank transfer and get a written acknowledgment (even a WhatsApp message from the owner/broker) stating that the amount is refundable if the deal falls through.
2. DON’T Accept a “Lock-in Period” Over 6 Months (Unless Necessary)
Most Delhi agreements have an 11-month tenure with a 1-month notice period.
- The Red Flag: If a landlord insists on a 6-month or 1-year “Lock-in” (where you cannot leave even if you give notice), negotiate. In a city where job transfers and life changes are frequent, you need flexibility.
3. DON’T Ignore the “Parking & Power Backup” Clause
In 2025, Delhi’s infrastructure is better, but parking remains a battlefield.
- The Mistake: Don’t assume you have a parking spot because there is space on the street. Ensure your agreement specifies designated parking (covered or open).
- Power: With Delhi’s intense summers, ensure the “Power Backup” (Inverter or DG set) is mentioned and that you know who pays for the maintenance of the batteries.
4. DON’T Forget the “Move-In” Photo Shoot
Before you settle in, take a 5-minute video of the entire flat, focusing on existing cracks, dampness (seelan), or broken fittings.
- The Reason: Under the new rules, the landlord must refund your deposit within 7 days of you vacating. Having photographic proof prevents them from making “arbitrary deductions” for pre-existing damage.
Quick Reference: Maintenance Split (2025 Rules)
| Responsibility | Landlord Pays For | Tenant Pays For |
| Structural | Roof leaks, wall cracks, external painting. | Minor internal painting/touch-ups. |
| Plumbing | Main pipe bursts, sanitary fittings. | Tap washers, drain cleaning. |
| Electrical | Internal wiring, main switchboard. | Bulbs, fuses, doorbell, AC servicing. |
Final Tip for 2025: The “Brokerage” Talk
In Delhi, the standard brokerage is 15 days to 1 month of rent. Always clarify this before you see the first flat. If you are using platforms like NoBroker or Housing.com, check if the “Relationship Manager” fees are separate from the platform subscription.
Finding the right home in Delhi is about more than just four walls—it’s about peace of mind.
