Bengaluru Tenant Reports Rs 51,000 Security Deposit Deduction for Repainting and Cleaning

A Bengaluru tenant reported that their landlord deducted Rs 51,000 from the security deposit for repainting, deep cleaning, and a 'safety buffer' after vacating a 2.5 BHK flat. The tenant noted the repainting cost increased from an initial estimate of under Rs 20,000 to Rs 36,000 without consultation, and deep cleaning charges of Rs 10,000 were considered excessive compared to market rates. The landlord, residing in North America, said the safety buffer would be refunded after the new tenant's occupancy. The tenant expressed feeling harassed and blindsided by these deductions.