In the realm of real estate transactions in India, a crucial legal instrument that governs the relationship between a property owner and a tenant is the Leave and License Agreement. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions under which a licensee (the tenant) is granted the permission to occupy and use the licensor’s (the landlord’s) property for a defined period, while retaining the ownership of the property. In this blog post, we will delve into the legal aspects and format of a Leave and License Agreement in the Indian real estate market.
Legal Aspect of Leave and License Agreements: Leave and License Agreements are governed by the Indian Easements Act of 1882. Unlike a traditional lease agreement, a license does not confer any interest in the property to the licensee. This crucial distinction allows the licensor to retain control and possession over the property, while permitting the licensee to use it for a predetermined purpose. This arrangement provides greater flexibility and ease of eviction to the licensor, as compared to a lease.
Key Clauses in a Leave and License Agreement:
- Description of the Parties: The agreement should clearly identify both the licensor and the licensee, along with their respective addresses.
- Property Details: Accurate details of the licensed property, including its address and a description of its boundaries, should be included.
- License Period: Specify the duration for which the license is being granted. This can be in months or years, and the start and end dates should be explicitly mentioned.
- License Fee and Deposit: Clearly state the amount of the license fee (rent) to be paid by the licensee and the mode of payment. Additionally, mention the security deposit amount that the licensee needs to provide, which is refundable upon adherence to the agreement terms.
- Permitted Use: Define the purpose for which the licensee is being granted the license, such as residential or commercial use.
- Maintenance Responsibilities: Specify the party responsible for property maintenance and repairs. This helps avoid disputes during the term of the agreement.
- Termination Clause: Outline the conditions under which either party can terminate the agreement before its expiry. This could include scenarios like non-payment of rent, breach of terms, or the need for personal use of the property by the licensor.
- Renewal and Revision: If the agreement can be renewed or if there’s provision for revising the license fee during the agreement period, these terms should be clearly stated.
- Notice Period: Define the notice period required by either party before terminating the agreement. This provides time to find alternative arrangements.
- Miscellaneous Clauses: Include clauses related to dispute resolution, governing law (usually Indian law), and any other specific terms relevant to the arrangement.
Format of a Leave and License Agreement: A Leave and License Agreement in India should be executed on a non-judicial stamp paper of value as per the Stamp Act of the respective state. It should be typed in a legible font, printed on both sides of the paper. The agreement should be signed by both parties and witnessed by at least two witnesses.
In conclusion, a well-drafted Leave and License Agreement is a vital legal document that safeguards the interests of both property owners and tenants in the Indian real estate market. Ensuring the inclusion of the key clauses mentioned above can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts, providing a transparent framework for the property’s usage. As legal requirements may vary from state to state, it’s advisable to seek professional legal counsel while drafting or entering into such agreements.
Remember, while this blog post provides valuable insights into Leave and License Agreements in the Indian real estate context, it’s always recommended to consult with legal experts for precise guidance tailored to your specific situation.
