The Karnataka government is preparing significant amendments to the Karnataka Rent Act, 1999, aimed at regulating high rents, curbing violations, and ensuring fairness for both tenants and landlords.
Under the proposed changes, penalties for breaching provisions will see a substantial hike, impacting both parties in rental agreements.
One key change is the sharp
increase in fines for tenants who sublet rented properties without the landlord’s consent.
The penalty will rise from the current Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 50,000 — a tenfold increase. Similarly, landlords who knowingly allow unauthorised subletting will face fines increased from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 30,000. The focus is on imposing heavier monetary penalties rather than imprisonment for such violations.