Model Tenancy Act ensures tenants get rent receipts and protection from default labels

India's Model Tenancy Act lays down clear rules protecting tenants in rent payment disputes with landlords. Under the law, landlords are legally required to provide signed receipts immediately upon receiving any rent payment. If a landlord refuses to issue a receipt, tenants have the option to pay via postal money order as a documented alternative. Should a landlord persistently decline payments altogether, tenants can deposit rent directly with the Rent Authority. These provisions ensure tenants cannot be unjustly classified as defaulters due to a landlord's non-cooperation.