A fresh dispute over a security deposit has reignited concerns over tenant-landlord conflicts in Bengaluru after a 28-year-old working professional alleged that her landlord withheld a significant portion of her deposit and later demanded an additional ₹22,000 even after she vacated the apartment.

The woman, who had rented an apartment in Koramangala in October 2024, shared her experience on Reddit, claiming she had agreed to several conditions in the rental agreement due to the urgent need for accommodation.

Rent hike sparked move

According to the tenant, the agreement allowed the landlord to deduct one month’s rent towards painting charges when she vacated the property. She said she lived in the apartment for 15 months before deciding to move out after the landlord increased the rent by 10 per cent, despite the agreement capping the annual hike at 5 per cent.

The tenant alleged that the landlord had already retained a security deposit equivalent to two months’ rent and deducted around ₹20,000 towards painting and other miscellaneous expenses.

Fresh demand after vacating

Despite these deductions, the landlord allegedly demanded another ₹22,000 after she handed over possession of the flat, claiming it covered half a month’s rent as notice and other expenses.

Uncertain whether the demand was legally valid, the tenant turned to social media seeking advice on whether landlords could legally retain a security deposit and still seek additional payments after a tenant had vacated the property.

Legal experts advise documentation

The post sparked widespread discussion online, with many users advising the tenant to seek a detailed written breakup of all deductions and retain copies of the rental agreement, payment records and communication with the landlord.

Legal experts say tenants should carefully review rental agreements before signing, document the condition of the property at the start of the tenancy, seek written explanations with supporting bills for any deductions, and issue a legal notice if a landlord refuses to return the security deposit without valid reasons.

Where significant amounts are involved, tenants may approach a civil court for appropriate legal relief.