Govt notifies Tenancy Rules to codify landlord-tenant relations

Srinagar, Jul 13: In a significant move, the authorities have notified the Jammu and Kashmir Tenancy Rules, 2026, unveiling a comprehensive framework for landlord-tenant relations across the Union Territory.
The Rules issued by the Housing and Urban Development Department, will facilitate implementation of the Jammu & Kashmir Tenancy Act passed by the Assembly.
On April 15, 2026, the government had placed the draft Rules in the public domain. However, no suggestions or objections were received within the stipulated 15‑day period, officials said.
As per the notified Rules, every tenancy agreement must be reported to the Rent Authority within two months of execution, either physically or electronically. The Rent Authority will allot a Unique Identification Number and issue an e‑receipt to both parties within seven working days.
The Rules mandate that the Rent Authority must establish a digital platform, in local or official languages, within the time specified by the Act, to enable submission of documents.
The Rent Authority is also required to take all necessary measures to maintain the privacy and security of data, including all documents and details submitted by the parties. “The details of the tenancy, including cases of renewal, extension, addendum, supplementary agreement and other related applications informed by the parties through the digital platform, shall be accessible only to the concerned parties and to such persons as may be authorised by the Rent Authority, and shall not be accessible to the public or to any unauthorised person,” the Rules state.
The Rules further define the procedure for resolving disputes between landlords and tenants regarding revision of rent or other charges. The Rent Authority will hear both parties, consider relevant factors such as prevailing rates in the locality, and then determine the revised rent or charges payable. It also has powers to appoint government‑recognized property valuers to assist in determining revised rent and charges.
As per Rules, tenants may deposit rent directly with the Rent Authority if landlords refuse to accept payments.
Besides, landlords who fail to refund advance rent or security deposits will be liable to pay interest equivalent to the Jammu and Kashmir Bank’s Marginal Cost of Lending Rate. (KNO)