India, June 1 -- Bengaluru's rental market is increasingly testing tenants' patience. From stringent tenant screening and steep security deposits to disputes over deposit refunds, tenants say moving out can be as stressful as moving in.

The latest flashpoint came after a tenant alleged that his landlord planned to deduct Rs.40,000 from a Rs.1 lakh security deposit for repainting the apartment while also insisting on a deep-cleaning charge of Rs.7,000- Rs.8,000. The post struck a chord with many renters, reigniting a familiar debate over what constitutes fair wear and tear and where legitimate maintenance costs end, and excessive deductions begin.

"We are shifting to another place this saturday in Bengaluru, and our current owner is aski...