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Getting back the security deposit from landlords might seem impossible. However, a Bengaluru tenant allegedly recovered a Rs 2.6 lakh security amount following a dispute with the landlord. A viral Reddit post details how the tenant dealt with the issue and eventually compelled the landlord to return the full amount without any deduction.
The tenant shared that they had rented a spacious 3.5 BHK apartment in a prime locality for Rs 55,000 per month during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as workplaces reopened and demand for housing increased, the landlord hiked the rent to Rs 78,000 per month.
While the tenant acknowledged that the increase was in line with what other landlords in the society were doing, they chose to vacate the flat. “I don’t blame him, as the other owners in society did the same. So, I said I will leave with 45 days of notice as per our agreement,” the tenant wrote.
Just a week before the move-out date, the landlord allegedly informed the tenant that he planned to deduct Rs 40,000 for painting, Rs 7,000 for bathroom cleaning, and would assess further deductions based on damages. Three days before vacating, the landlord added another Rs 38,000 deduction, citing general wear and tear.
“At this point, I was sure he didn’t want to return the security deposit but was building a document trail to fight a case if needed,” the tenant noted.
Despite reaching out repeatedly after vacating the flat, the tenant received no reimbursement even 40 days later. Frustrated by the delays and arbitrary deductions, the tenant decided to take decisive action.
After learning that the landlord had a military background, the tenant said he researched and contacted senior officials, alleging that the ex-officer was misusing his status. Soon after escalating the matter, the landlord transferred the entire Rs 2.6 lakh deposit without any deductions.
See the viral post here:
My story how I recovered 2.6 L security deposit
byu/Best_Taste_7704 inLegalAdviceIndia
The post sparked discussions around tenant rights, rental agreements, and the need for stricter enforcement of housing laws in India. “Name and shame because this deserves to be in the news to make others aware and avoid defamation to army,” a user wrote. “Made me happy that someone got justice! Legal route would have been so frustrating & with no guarantee of justice,” another user commented.
“There needs to be a legal process for deducting from deposit amount in a way that protects both tenant and owner,” a third user reacted.
