Deposit Drama In Bengaluru: Couple Left High And Dry After Paying Rs 1 Lakh

Bengaluru's rental market is under scrutiny once again, with startup founder Shravan Tickoo calling landlords in the city a "menace" after a couple's harrowing experience with their rented flat came to light. The couple, who paid a hefty monthly rent of ₹55,000, ended up shelling out over ₹1 lakh on maintenance issues that the landlord refused to address. To add insult to injury, their security deposit of ₹1.75 lakh was withheld when they vacated the property.

In a viral LinkedIn post, Tickoo revealed that the landlord justified withholding the deposit under the pretext of "flat maintenance." He described the situation as "modern-day exploitation" and cautioned newcomers to the city to remain vigilant when renting homes.

"A couple moved into a 2BHK in a reputed society, paying an exorbitant rent of ₹55,000. Despite paying rent consistently, they faced frequent maintenance issues such as leakages. Each time they reached out, the landlord refused to take responsibility, instructing them through the property manager that it was their problem to fix," Tickoo wrote.

He further explained how the couple eventually spent over ₹1 lakh from their own pockets to address these persistent issues. However, when they decided to vacate the flat, their request to deduct a month's rent and refund the remaining deposit was outright rejected by the landlord, who curtly responded, "Do whatever you can, but this is what it is."

With no viable legal recourse, the couple had no choice but to forfeit their deposit entirely.

Tickoo also highlighted the double standards of landlords in the city. "They are quick to call and demand rent hikes but conveniently disappear when issues arise. While some might consider this an isolated incident, I've seen it happen repeatedly to many tenants."

Addressing aspiring professionals moving to Bengaluru, Tickoo advised, "Before making the big move, prioritize dealing with people who respect you. Be extremely cautious while renting or purchasing homes. Otherwise, what starts as a city of dreams can quickly turn into an unexpected nightmare."

The LinkedIn post resonated widely, with many users sharing their experiences and opinions. One user suggested creating a platform where tenants and landlords could rate each other to bring more transparency to rental dealings.

"This isn't just a Bengaluru issue," commented another user, adding, "I've faced similar challenges in Delhi NCR."

Another respondent went so far as to say, "Bangalore has become uninhabitable."

Offering a professional perspective, Chartered Accountant Yukti Sehgal advised tenants to take proactive measures to avoid rental disputes. Sehgal recommended:

• Having the rental agreement reviewed by a professional.
• Documenting the property's condition through photographs.
• Conducting a thorough inspection before moving in.
• Maintaining all communications via email for a clear record.
• Notifying landlords at least three months in advance before vacating.
• Clarifying deposit adjustments in writing.
• Taking exit photographs to document the flat's condition.

Sehgal further advised tenants to promptly send a legal notice if the deposit is unfairly withheld, in line with the rental agreement terms.