PG Rent Agreement Kolkata: Documents & Deposit

Before you move into a paying guest accommodation, you need a clear PG rent agreement in Kolkata, a short set of identity documents, and a written record of your security deposit. Most PGs ask for an Aadhaar card or another government photo ID, a passport-sized photograph, and a college or employer letter, and many also collect a local guardian’s details. The security deposit is usually a multiple of one month’s rent, and the exact amount is whatever you and the owner agree in writing, because there is no single figure that applies across the city. Always ask for a written agreement or receipt that states the rent, the deposit, the notice period, and the conditions for a refund. Never pay in cash without a signed receipt. This guide explains what to carry, what a sensible agreement contains, how deposits normally work, and how to protect your money when you leave.

Documents Most PGs Ask For in Kolkata

Requirements differ between a small family-run PG in Jadavpur and a managed property in New Town, but the core list is similar. Keep both original and photocopied sets ready so you can move in the same day you finalise a room.

Government photo ID: Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID or driving licence. Owners generally record at least one for their own safety and for police verification.
Address proof: Aadhaar, passport or a utility bill from your home town.
Passport-sized photographs: usually two to four.
Admission letter, college ID or employer letter: students are asked for proof of enrolment and working professionals for an offer letter or company ID.
Guardian or emergency contact details: a parent’s name, phone number and address, often with a copy of their ID.
Medical information: some PGs ask about allergies or long-term conditions, which you can share voluntarily.

Be cautious if an owner asks for original documents to be left behind. Copies are normally enough. Never hand over original certificates or your passport as security.

PG Rent Agreement in Kolkata: What It Should Contain

A short agreement protects both sides. For stays under 12 months, registration is generally not compulsory, but a written document on stamp paper or an e-stamped format is still the safest option. Agreements for longer periods typically need to be registered, so check the current rules with the sub-registrar’s office or a lawyer. Stamp duty depends on the rent and tenure and changes from time to time, so confirm the current figure before you sign.

At a minimum, make sure the document states the following:

Full names and addresses of the owner and the resident, and the exact room or bed allotted.
Monthly rent, the due date, and whether electricity, water, Wi-Fi, food and laundry are included.
Security deposit amount, how and when it will be refunded, and any deductions allowed.
Lock-in period, notice period, and what happens if you leave early.
Rules on guests, visiting hours, curfew and shared spaces.
Conditions for rent increases during the stay.

How Much Is the Security Deposit?

There is no fixed citywide rate. In practice, many PGs ask for one to two months’ rent as deposit, and some premium or managed properties ask for more. Because prices vary by area and room type, compare a few options before paying. Our PG price guide by area and the single, double and triple sharing cost comparison help you judge whether a quoted rent is reasonable. Treat any figure you hear as a starting point, and confirm current pricing directly with the owner before committing.

Deposit Rules: Refund, Deductions and Receipts

A security deposit is meant to cover unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear, not to act as extra income for the owner. To keep it safe, follow these habits:

Pay by bank transfer or UPI where possible, and keep the transaction record.
Get a signed receipt that mentions the amount and the word deposit, not just rent.
Photograph the room, furniture, walls and fittings on the day you move in, and share them with the owner by message.
Agree in writing on the refund timeline, such as within a set number of days after you vacate.
Give notice in writing, and keep a copy, so there is no dispute over dates.

Police Verification and KYC

Owners in Kolkata are generally expected to inform the local police station about new residents, and many ask you to cooperate with verification. This usually involves your ID and address proof and the owner’s written request. You can check the process and local police station details on the West Bengal Police website. If an owner asks for a fee for verification, ask what it covers and get a receipt. Our PG safety checklist lists other checks worth doing before you pay.

Red Flags Before You Sign

No written agreement or receipt, or a refusal to put the deposit in writing.
Pressure to pay the full deposit on the first visit, before you have seen the actual room.
A deposit that is unusually high compared with similar PGs in the area.
Vague answers about food, electricity charges or exit rules.
Reluctance to share the owner’s own ID or contact details.

If you are choosing a location, you may also want to read our guides to PGs near Jadavpur and Calcutta University and to PGs in Salt Lake and New Town.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to rent a PG in Kolkata?

Usually a government photo ID such as Aadhaar, address proof, passport-sized photographs, and a college or employer letter. Many PGs also want a guardian’s contact details.

Is a rent agreement compulsory for a PG in Kolkata?

Smaller PGs often work on receipts alone, but a written agreement is strongly recommended. Registration rules depend on the tenure, so check the current requirement with the sub-registrar or a lawyer.

How much security deposit do PGs charge in Kolkata?

It varies by area and type of PG. One to two months’ rent is common, but the amount is negotiable and should be confirmed with the owner and written down.

How do I get my PG deposit back?

Give written notice as per the agreement, return the room in its original condition, and ask for a refund by bank transfer. Keep your receipt and move-in photos in case of a dispute.