This RealtyBlocks guide breaks down your most important rights, obligations, and best practices—so you can rent confidently, avoid common pitfalls, and protect your interests.

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1. Key Rights of Tenants

a) Right to Fair Rent & Receipt

• Fair Rent:
  You have the right to a mutually agreed, reasonable rent. Rent increases should follow the terms in your agreement.

• Rent Receipts:
  Always get a receipt or digital record for every payment—never pay cash without documentation.

b) Right to Safe, Habitable Housing

• Basic Amenities:
  You are entitled to a safe, hygienic living space with electricity, water, and essential repairs.

• Privacy:
  The landlord can’t enter without prior notice, except in emergencies.

c) Right to a Written Agreement

• Legal Contract:
  Your rental agreement should clearly state rent, deposit, notice period, and responsibilities of both parties.

• Security Deposit Protection:
  The deposit must be refunded (minus agreed deductions) within the timeframe stated in your agreement.

d) Right to Notice Before Eviction

• Eviction Notice:
  Landlords must provide proper written notice (typically 1-3 months, as per the contract) before asking you to vacate, except for certain legal violations.

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2. Key Responsibilities of Tenants

• Timely Rent Payment:
  Pay rent on or before the due date, as per your agreement.

• Proper Use & Maintenance:
  Maintain the property, avoid illegal activities, and prevent damage beyond normal wear and tear.

• Follow Society Rules:
  Adhere to building/community guidelines for noise, guests, pets, and security.

• Provide Notice for Move-Out:
  Give written notice (as agreed) before vacating. Settle all dues, and return keys.

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3. Key Rights of Landlords

a) Right to Choose Tenants

• Screening:
  Landlords may verify tenant backgrounds, employment, and previous references (while following non-discrimination laws).

• Agreement Terms:
  Set rent, deposit, and house rules within legal boundaries.

b) Right to Receive Timely Rent

• On-Time Payments:
  Landlords are entitled to receive rent on schedule and charge penalties for late payments, as per the contract.

c) Right to Property Protection

• Proper Use:
  Expect tenants to use the property responsibly, maintain hygiene, and avoid unauthorized subletting.

• Access for Inspection/Repairs:
  Can enter the property with prior notice for inspection or urgent repairs.

d) Right to Eviction as Per Law

• Eviction:
  Can ask a tenant to vacate for non-payment, violation of agreement, or property misuse—following due process and giving proper notice.

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4. Key Responsibilities of Landlords

• Provide Safe, Habitable Housing:
  Ensure the property is clean, safe, and has all promised amenities.

• Prompt Repairs:
  Address maintenance and repairs for electrical, plumbing, and structural issues.

• Respect Tenant Privacy:
  Provide notice before visits (unless emergency).

• Return Deposit Promptly:
  Refund the security deposit quickly after move-out, minus agreed deductions (with receipts).

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5. Best Practices for a Smooth Rental Relationship

• Always Sign a Written Agreement:
  Use RealtyBlocks’ digital agreement with clear terms on rent, deposit, notice, and rules.

• Document Everything Digitally:
  Store receipts, move-in checklists, and communication on RealtyBlocks for future reference.

• Open Communication:
  Address issues or concerns early, through written messages or RealtyBlocks chat.

• Stay Informed:
  Know your state’s local rental laws and any updates to the Model Tenancy Act.

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6. What to Do in Case of Disputes

• Review Your Agreement:
  Start by checking the terms you both signed.

• Communicate Calmly:
  Try to resolve through discussion and written records.

• Seek Mediation:
  Use local Rent Authorities or consumer forums for mediation.

• Get Expert Help:
  RealtyBlocks connects you with legal advisors and offers dispute resolution support through our Learning Center and BlocChat assistant.

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Conclusion

Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant or landlord is your best protection. It helps you avoid unnecessary stress, build lasting rental relationships, and ensures every transaction is fair and legal. With RealtyBlocks’ digital agreements, documentation tools, and expert support, renting is easier and safer than ever.

Need templates, checklists, or legal help?
Visit the RealtyBlocks Learning Center or chat with BlocChat for instant answers and tenant-landlord resources.

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RealtyBlocks: Empowering tenants and landlords for a transparent, secure, and hassle-free rental experience.

This RealtyBlocks guide gives you practical tips and digital solutions to secure your deposit and leave on good terms with your landlord.

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1. Understand the Terms of Your Security Deposit

Before you move in:

• Know the amount:
  Security deposits usually range from 1–3 months’ rent.

• Check the agreement:
  Make sure the rental contract specifies the deposit amount, payment method (preferably bank transfer), and clear refund terms.

• Refund timeline:
  The agreement should state how long after move-out the deposit will be returned—commonly 7 to 30 days.

Tip:
Use a digital rental agreement through RealtyBlocks to ensure all terms are clear and securely stored.

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2. Document the Property Condition at Move-In

Why it matters:
Landlords often deduct money for “damages” that may already exist.
How to protect yourself:

• Do a thorough walkthrough:
  Inspect walls, floors, fixtures, appliances, windows, and doors.

• Take photos or a video:
  Capture every room and any pre-existing issues (cracks, stains, broken items).

• Complete a move-in checklist:
  Use RealtyBlocks’ digital checklist, and share it with your landlord for mutual agreement.

Tip:
Get written acknowledgment from the landlord on the checklist or email/photos.

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3. Maintain the Property During Your Stay

Why it matters:
Good upkeep prevents major disputes at the end of your lease.

• Report repairs immediately:
  Use the RealtyBlocks dashboard to log and track maintenance requests.

• Keep records:
  Document repairs and communication with the landlord, especially for major issues.

• Don’t make unauthorized changes:
  Always get written approval for alterations or installations.

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4. Give Proper Notice and Plan Your Move-Out

• Follow the notice period:
  Most rental agreements require 1–3 months’ notice before you leave. Always inform your landlord in writing (email or RealtyBlocks chat).

• Clear all dues:
  Pay pending rent, utility bills, and society charges before moving out. Get receipts as proof.

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5. Do a Joint Inspection Before Leaving

• Schedule a final walkthrough:
  Walk through the property with your landlord and review the original move-in checklist together.

• Address minor repairs:
  Fix simple issues (light bulbs, cleaning, nail holes) yourself to avoid deductions.

• Record the inspection:
  Take new photos and ask the landlord to acknowledge the property’s condition.

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6. Return Keys and Collect Written Confirmation

• Hand over all keys:
  Main door, windows, mailbox, parking, etc.

• Get a receipt:
  Ask for a written acknowledgment of key return and move-out date.

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7. Follow Up for Your Deposit Refund

• Remind your landlord politely if the refund is delayed:
  Reference the agreed timeline in your contract.

• Keep all communication digital:
  Use RealtyBlocks chat or email for traceability.

If the landlord refuses to return your deposit:

• Send a formal notice:
  Reference your signed agreement, move-in checklist, and photos.

• Seek legal advice:
  RealtyBlocks can connect you with tenant-friendly legal experts if needed.

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8. Use Digital Tools for a Dispute-Free Experience

• All-in-one dashboard:
  Store your agreement, checklists, receipts, and messages securely on RealtyBlocks.

• Digital move-in/move-out checklists:
  Reduce misunderstandings and ensure transparent documentation.

• Tenant support:
  Chat with RealtyBlocks’ BlocChat assistant for instant help with rental disputes or legal queries.

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Conclusion

Securing your rental deposit is all about clear agreements, proper documentation, and open communication. By following this checklist and using RealtyBlocks’ digital solutions, you can protect your money, avoid disputes, and enjoy a stress-free move-out.

Need templates, digital checklists, or legal advice?
Visit the RealtyBlocks Learning Center or chat with our BlocChat assistant for tenant-friendly resources and support.

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RealtyBlocks: Empowering tenants with secure, transparent, and hassle-free renting.