You can add the search for accommodation in India to the list of adventures you’ll have upon relocating. From modern apartment complexes and quaint bungalows to large villas suitable for families, there are homes to suit every taste and budget.
Accommodation options vary greatly between areas, but if you are moving to one of the major cities, you can expect more competition in the housing market than in more remote locations. Unless you plan on relocating to India for the long term, you'll probably rent property instead of buying.
In general, rental prices in India have been rising, adding to the cost of living, but affordability depends on your budget and location. Still, many people find rental prices reasonable, especially compared to other major international destinations.
Types of accommodation in India
Unfurnished, semi-furnished, and fully furnished properties can be found across the country; the more limited the furnishings, the lower the rental price. The types of property depend very much on the location. Most people move to one of India’s bustling cities, where apartments are most common, while larger houses can be found more towards the outskirts.
When looking for accommodation in India, you will likely come across the BHK acronym: bedroom, hall, and kitchen. For instance, a ‘three BHK’ means a three-bedroom property with a hall and a kitchen. Among the main types of accommodation available in India are apartments, independent floors, houses, and gated complexes.
Apartments are one of the most popular types of property in India. They can be found in low-rise and high-rise blocks, ranging from basic studio flats to luxury penthouses.
In India, you can actually rent an entire floor rather than a unit in an apartment block. Called independent floors, they can be found mainly in low-rise buildings. They are sometimes shared among large families who rent several floors and live together in the same building, but on separate storeys.
The standards and prices of houses vary widely from area to area and city to city. Bungalows and charming one-storey cottages are popular among families, while those with a taste for luxury can look for large villas with a garden and swimming pool. If you want to escape city life’s hustle and bustle, you can also find several farmhouse options.
A fair share of the gated communities in and around India’s cities are available, although housing here can be expensive. Housing complexes typically offer condominium-style accommodation with shared access to amenities like clubhouses, swimming pools, and green spaces. High-end gated communities also often offer gyms and sports facilities.
Furnished vs unfurnished
Furnished properties in India come fully equipped with furniture, appliances, and kitchenware, allowing you to move in immediately. This option is ideal for short-term stays or corporate housing. Landlords typically maintain the entire property and its furnishings. These rentals often include utilities like internet and cable.
Semi-furnished properties may include basic furniture and appliances, balancing cost and convenience. Unfurnished rentals, while cheaper, require you to provide your own furniture and appliances.
Short lets
Short-term leases offer flexibility, allowing you to move more frequently. They are perfect for temporary stays, job assignments, or internships. Short lets are a good way to avoid long-term commitments if you are unsure about your future plans. They also give you an opportunity to explore different neighbourhoods before deciding where to settle long-term. Providers like Airbnb and Booking.com are great options for exploring short lets in India.
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Finding accommodation in India
The demand for good-quality, reasonably priced accommodation often outweighs the supply, so finding a rental in India can be challenging. The good news is that employers often help their employees find a place to stay, sometimes lining up a few options for their expat employees to choose from.
But many new arrivals aren’t so lucky and must find a home independently. Online property listings and real estate portals are a good starting point. These platforms offer comprehensive listings with photos, details, and contact options for owners or agents.
Social media pages and groups have also become effective for finding rentals. Be cautious and verify listings and owners when dealing with private parties on social media.
Many people hire a local real estate agent or enlist the services of a relocation company. In this position, you must be explicit about your specifications and price range. Estate agents can also help draw up rental agreements and register long-term leases.
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Renting accommodation in India
Renting accommodation in India involves several steps to ensure you find the right place and meet all the legal requirements.
Making an application
The typical process for renting accommodation in India involves shortlisting properties based on location, budget and requirements and visiting the property to assess its condition and meet the owner or agent. Once you're satisfied with the property, you'll submit identification and proof of income, sign the rental agreement, pay the first month's rent, and pay a refundable security deposit, usually one or two months' rent, depending on the area and specific agreement. The process can vary significantly by region and city, so be sure to read through your contract carefully.
Leases
Prospective tenants should review their rental and lease contracts with a fine-tooth comb. Leases should cover all stipulations and clauses affecting the tenant and landlord, such as the lease duration, deposits, monthly rent, utilities, rent increases, and notice periods.
11-month lease agreements are the norm in India, but shorter-term rental agreements may also be possible. Longer-term leases are also available; those valid for longer than 11 months must be formally registered with the relevant authorities, including registration costs and stamp duty (a type of state tax) charges.
Deposits
Deposits for residential properties are capped at two months' rent, but enforcement of this rule is inconsistent, meaning some landlords or agents may try to secure a larger deposit. Deposits are fully refundable at the end of the tenancy if no damage is incurred, and landlords must provide an itemised account of any deposit deductions.
Termination of the lease
Either you or your landlord must give notice if you wish to terminate the lease early. Notice usually needs to be given one or two months in advance. Some agreements may have a lock-in period of three to six months, where the tenant cannot terminate the lease without penalty. Landlords must provide at least one month’s notice if they want to increase rent or decide not to renew the lease.
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Utilities in India
When renting in India, you'll typically have to cover the costs of utilities, including electricity, water, and maintenance charges. Ensure these details are clearly outlined in your lease agreement to avoid surprises. India’s utilities landscape varies widely by region, and it’s important to understand how to manage these services effectively.
Electricity
India’s electricity supply is managed by both government and private companies, called distribution companies (Discoms). Major Discoms include BRPL and BYPL in Delhi, Tata Power and Adani Electricity in Mumbai, BESCOM in Bengaluru, TANGEDCO in Chennai, and TSSPDCL in Hyderabad.
The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. Plugs are typically types C (two round pins) and D and M (three round pins in a triangle). Payment methods include online payments through official Discom websites and apps, bank transfers, and in-person payments at designated centres. Newer technologies, such as QR code payments and UPI transactions, are also gaining traction.
To connect to a new electricity supplier, submit an application on the Discom’s website or visit their office, provide the necessary documents (proof of identity and address), and the supplier will arrange for installation.
Gas
Both piped natural gas (PNG) and bottled liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are widely used in India. In urban areas, piped gas from suppliers like Indraprastha Gas Limited and Mahanagar Gas Limited is preferred for its convenience and safety. In rural areas, bottled gas supplied by Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited remains common.
Payments for gas services can be made online, via bank transfers, or in person. To connect to a gas supply, contact the supplier, submit the required application and documents and schedule an installation.
Water
Water safety in India varies, but contamination affects water quality in many cities. In Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru, tap water may require additional purification, with many households using RO systems or buying bottled water.
Main water suppliers include the Delhi Jal Board in Delhi, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation in Mumbai, Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board in Chennai and Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board in Bengaluru. Payments are typically made online, via bank transfer, or in person. Connecting to a new water supply involves submitting an application, paying connection fees, and having a water meter installed.
Bins and recycling
Waste disposal and recycling in India are evolving, with a focus on segregation and recycling. Major cities mandate the segregation of waste into wet, dry, and hazardous categories. For example, Delhi has waste-to-energy plants, Mumbai promotes composting and recycling, and Bengaluru enforces decentralised composting.
Residents must register for waste collection services with their local municipal body. The Solid Waste Management Rules 2016 mandate segregation and proper disposal, with fines for non-compliance. Initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission also aim to improve waste management practices nationwide.
Internet
Internet access options in India include fibre broadband, ADSL, WiFi, and 5G. Major providers include Reliance Jio, Airtel, BSNL, and Vi (Vodafone Idea). Payment methods are generally online, through bank transfers, or in person at service centres.
To connect to a new internet service provider, research available ISPs, submit an application, provide documentation and schedule an installation.
For more about the internet and telecommunications, read Keeping in Touch in India.