Can a landlord increase rent during the lease period?

No, a landlord generally cannot unilaterally increase rent during a fixed lease period unless the rental agreement specifically allows it. The rent agreed in a valid lease is binding for its term, and any increase must follow the agreement or applicable rent law.

Key points

• The rent fixed in a lease is binding for the lease term unless the agreement contains an escalation clause.
• Any mid-term increase must comply with the terms in your rental agreement.
• If a rent control law applies, increases are further regulated and capped.
• A landlord cannot pressure you to pay more by threatening eviction during a valid lease.
• Check your agreement for any annual escalation percentage that you may have already agreed to.

Relevant law

Lease terms are enforceable under the Transfer of Property Act, 1882 and the Indian Contract Act, 1872. Rent increases may also be governed by the applicable Kerala Rent Control Act or, where adopted, the Model Tenancy Act, 2021, which regulates permissible increases.

What you can do

• Review your rental agreement for any rent escalation clause.
• Respond in writing declining any increase not permitted by the agreement.
• If pressured or threatened, approach the Rent Controller/authority in Kochi.
• Consult a tenancy lawyer in Kochi to protect your rights under the lease.