Why 11-Month Rent Agreements Are Standard Practice Across India

Rental agreements in India are typically drafted for 11 months to avoid the mandatory registration requirement that applies to longer tenancy contracts under the Registration Act, 1908. This practice helps both landlords and tenants sidestep additional stamp duty and registration fees, making the process cheaper and simpler. Despite being unregistered, these agreements remain legally valid as long as they are executed on stamp paper. They serve as an important document recording the agreed terms between both parties.