Bengaluru Real Estate: One Month’s Rent for a Fresh Coat of Paint Now the Norm

In Bengaluru, the IT capital of India, tenants are now often required to pay one month's rent for a fresh coat of paint when moving into a new rental property. This trend reflects the evolving dynamics of the rental market in the city.

Real EstateRental MarketBengaluruIt CapitalPainting FeesReal Estate NewsApr 25, 2025

Bengaluru Real Estate: One Month’s Rent for a Fresh Coat of Paint Now the Norm

Real Estate News:In the bustling city of Bengaluru, known as the IT capital of India, the rental real estate market is witnessing a new trend. Landlords are increasingly demanding one month’s rent from tenants to cover the cost of a fresh coat of paint before they move in. This practice, which has become a norm in recent years, highlights the competitive and evolving nature of the rental market in the city.

The demand for a fresh coat of paint is just one of the many conditions that tenants must meet when looking for a rental property in Bengaluru. The city, with its rapid growth and high demand for housing, has seen a spike in rental prices and stringent requirements from landlords. This new trend adds an additional financial burden on tenants, especially those who are already struggling with the high cost of living in the city.

According to real estate experts, the practice of charging one month’s rent for painting is a result of the high turnover rate in rental properties. Many tenants stay for only a short period, often due to job changes or transfers. Landlords, who are keen to keep their properties in good condition to attract new tenants, find it necessary to repaint the units frequently. The cost of painting, which can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of rupees, is often passed on to the tenants.

However, not everyone agrees with this practice. Some tenants argue that it is unfair to be charged for maintenance that should be the responsibility of the landlord. They point out that the rental agreement typically includes a clause for the landlord to maintain the property in good condition. Despite these concerns, many landlords insist on the payment, citing the need to keep the property presentable and competitive in the market.

Real estate agents in Bengaluru also have mixed feelings about this trend. While some see it as a reasonable request to maintain property standards, others believe it could deter potential tenants from renting properties. The additional cost can be a significant factor for tenants who are already dealing with high rental prices, security deposits, and other move-in expenses.

The trend is not unique to Bengaluru. Similar practices can be observed in other major cities in India, such as Mumbai and Delhi, where rental markets are equally competitive. However, the specific requirement of one month’s rent for painting is more prevalent in Bengaluru due to the city’s high turnover rate and the premium placed on maintaining property aesthetics.

For tenants, the best approach is to negotiate the terms of the rental agreement. If a landlord insists on the payment for painting, tenants can try to reduce the amount or agree on a different form of compensation. It is also advisable to read the rental agreement carefully and understand all the conditions before signing. Some tenants have found that offering a slightly higher rent can sometimes persuade the landlord to waive the painting fee.

In conclusion, the practice of charging one month’s rent for a fresh coat of paint in Bengaluru's rental market is a reflection of the city’s dynamic real estate landscape. While it adds an extra financial burden for tenants, it also underscores the importance of maintaining property standards in a highly competitive market. For both tenants and landlords, clear communication and negotiation are key to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new trend in Bengaluru's rental market?

Landlords in Bengaluru are increasingly requiring tenants to pay one month’s rent for a fresh coat of paint before moving into a rental property.

Why do landlords charge tenants for painting?

Landlords charge for painting to maintain the property in good condition, especially given the high turnover rate in rental properties.

Is this practice unique to Bengaluru?

While similar practices exist in other major cities, the specific requirement of one month’s rent for painting is more prevalent in Bengaluru due to its high turnover rate and premium on property aesthetics.

How can tenants negotiate this fee?

Tenants can try to negotiate the painting fee by offering a higher rent, asking for a reduced amount, or finding alternative forms of compensation.

What should tenants do before signing a rental agreement?

Tenants should read the rental agreement carefully, understand all the conditions, and negotiate any terms they find unreasonable, such as the painting fee.