Rule 1 — Visit at rush hour

A 20-minute commute at 11 AM can turn into 90 minutes at 9 AM. Always visit at 8:30-10 AM and 6-8 PM on weekdays to see the real traffic, water pressure and neighborhood noise.

Rule 2 — Test the water and geyser

Turn on every tap. Check the geyser. Ask when water tanks are filled. Many Indian cities have hidden water problems the owner won't disclose.

Rule 3 — Photograph everything on move-in

Every wall, tile, appliance, faucet — with timestamp. Share the photos with the owner via WhatsApp so they can't claim damages later.

Rule 4 — Read society bylaws

Some gated societies ban non-vegetarians, pets, or bachelors. Some have 10 PM lift-shutdown. Ask the RWA secretary, not just the owner.

Rule 5 — Ask about power backup honestly

'100% backup' can mean anything. Ask specifically: does the AC work on backup? Does the geyser? For how many hours?

Rule 6 — Negotiate the deposit down

10 months is standard in Bengaluru, 3-6 months in most cities. Push for 6 months first — you'd be surprised how many owners agree if the rent is prompt.

Rule 7 — Keep a security-deposit paper trail

Always pay via bank transfer, never cash. Get a signed receipt. This is what protects you 11 months later.

Rule 8 — Check the exit clause

Most agreements have 1-month notice. But some have a lock-in period (3-6 months) with heavy penalty. Read carefully.

Rule 9 — Meet neighbours before signing

The best signal for a good place is a friendly next-door family. If they seem hesitant to talk, ask why.

Rule 10 — Skip the broker

Brokers charge 1 month's rent to introduce you to a listing you could have found on To-Let Rentals for free. Every ₹ counts in your first year.