Kerala

Registration mandate

Registration is compulsory once the term reaches 12 months. Registration fee is 2% of the consideration, minimum Rs. 500/-.

Compulsory from 12 months

How the cost is worked out

Stamp duty is 0.5% of (total rent for the term + the security deposit), subject to a minimum of Rs. 500/-.

Minimum stamp duty: ₹500

Local practice tips

• Advance (deposit) amounts in Kerala are traditionally high - document the refund schedule precisely.
• Rent Control Courts handle eviction, but contractual notice must still be served first.
• Keep a Malayalam version handy for local authorities and the Village Office.