India, July 18 -- If rent is the monthly squeeze, the security deposit is often the biggest financial hurdle tenants face, even before moving in. Bengaluru's rental market has become almost synonymous with disputes over delayed or withheld security deposit refunds, with social media platforms such as Reddit, X and LinkedIn filled with renters recounting similar experiences.

Common complaints include landlords deducting money for repainting the home for the 'next tenant', charging for routine wear and tear, deep cleaning or minor repairs, or taking months to return the deposit, if they return it at all.

These individual disputes point to a much larger and largely overlooked financial reality. Across India's six largest metropolitan regio...