Registration is now mandatory for all tenancy agreements (commercial and residential) with the Rent Authority, irrespective of the term and value of the tenancy, except premises registered under the Factories Act, 1948.
This requirement stems from the new legislation Tamil Nadu Regulations of Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants Act, 2017 which was brought to replace Tamil Nadu Buildings (Lease and Rent Control) Act, 1960. The Act came into effect on 22nd February 2019 along with the notification of Tamil Nadu Regulation of Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords and Tenants Rules, 2019. The Act aims to regulate the terms and conditions of the tenancy agreement and to safeguard the interest of the landlords and the tenants in case of disputes. As per the provisions of this law, all tenancy agreements should be written agreements and shall be compulsorily registered with the Rent Authority.
An exclusive portal (www.tenancy.tn.gov.in) for the registration of rent/lease agreements was launched by the TN Govt where landlord, tenant or property manager can apply for the registration.
As per Rule 3, all tenancy agreements entered into prior to 22nd February, 2019 shall be registered within 90 days from the date of notification of the Act ie 22 May 2019. Further, any agreement entered after that shall be registered with the Rent Authority within 90 days from the date of such execution.
On registering the Tenancy Agreement, the Rent Authority will issue a certificate of registration of tenancy agreement. In case of renewal of tenancy a fresh certificate shall be obtained.
This registration does not cover Registrations required under the Registration Act, 1908 will have to be sought separately from the sub-registrar’s office.
Click here to see the Rules.
