1. The 10-Point Pre-Deposit Checklist
Moving into a new flat in Bangalore usually requires transferring ₹1,00,000 to ₹3,00,000 upfront. Once that money leaves your account, your negotiating leverage drops to zero.
Run through this quick verification checklist before you transfer any token advance or security deposit:
- Confirm Kaveri water availability vs tanker dependency during peak summer (March–June).
- Verify BESCOM consumer number (RR number) online to ensure no past unpaid power bills.
- Ask whether monthly maintenance is included in rent or billed separately by the society.
- Verify elevator and full generator power backup (especially for WFH setups).
- Check mobile phone signal strength inside bedrooms and kitchen for your cellular carrier.
- Inspect geysers, plumbing fixtures, and drain flow in all bathrooms.
- Confirm visitor restrictions, non-veg cooking policies, and gate closing timings.
- Ask for exact move-in and move-out society fees charged by the Resident Welfare Association (RWA).
- Clarify the notice period (1 month is fair; reject 2-3 month locks if possible).
- Agree in writing on painting deduction caps at move-out (e.g., maximum 1 month rent or actual bill).
2. Water Sources: Kaveri vs Borewell vs Tanker
Water is Bangalore's biggest rental friction point. A flat with 24/7 water advertised in November might face dry taps and ₹4,000 monthly tanker bills by April.
| Water Source | Reliability | Cost Impact | What to Ask |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kaveri Municipal | High (alternate days in summer) | Low (included in basic BWSSB) | Which days does Kaveri water come? |
| Deep Borewell | Moderate (drops in March-May) | Low to Moderate | How deep is the borewell? Does it go dry? |
| Private Tankers | Variable (frequent price surges) | High (₹1,500–₹5,000/month) | Who orders and pays for tankers? |
3. Agreement Drafting & Token Money Safety
Never pay token money in cash. Always pay via UPI or NEFT with a clear transaction note: 'Advance token for Flat [Unit], refundable if agreement terms not agreed'.
Demand a digital PDF draft of the 11-month lease agreement before paying the balance security deposit. Ensure the owner's legal name on the agreement matches their PAN card and bank account.