Bengaluru renters vent frustration over unfair deposit deductions

A tweet by tech entrepreneur Varun Mayya has sparked widespread outrage among renters in Bengaluru, drawing attention to the persistent issue of landlords unfairly withholding security deposits. Mayya shared his frustration, saying, “the biggest scam in Bangalore is when you are leaving an apartment and the owner sends you a fraction of the security deposit claiming ‘damage’ despite no evidence." His tweet, which has garnered 1.1 million views, resonated with many who shared similar experiences across Indian cities.

the biggest scam in bangalore is when you are leaving an apartment and the owner sends you a fraction of the security deposit claiming “damage” or something despite no evidence. I’ve lived in maybe 10 apartments and this illegal retention of deposit has happened every single time

— Varun Mayya (@waitin4agi_)

the biggest scam in bangalore is when you are leaving an apartment and the owner sends you a fraction of the security deposit claiming “damage” or something despite no evidence. I’ve lived in maybe 10 apartments and this illegal retention of deposit has happened every single time

— Varun Mayya (@waitin4agi_) November 13, 2024

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The issue is particularly prominent in Bengaluru, where security deposits have surged to 10-12 months' rent. Renters from cities like Gurugram and Mumbai also weighed in, with one commenter stating, “You are insanely lucky if you get >70% of your security deposit back.” Many cited landlords withholding deposits without providing legal proof of damage, in violation of the Karnataka Rent Control Act, which mandates the return of the full deposit within 30 days unless itemized receipts for repairs are provided.

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Some renters have resorted to informal solutions, with one suggesting passing the deposit burden onto new tenants. However, these measures aren't always viable, especially when landlords remain uncooperative. In contrast, a user from Mizoram shared a different experience, noting a more trust-based rental culture with no formal security deposit or agreements.

Despite legal protections, renters continue to struggle with enforcement and fairness in security deposit returns.