West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act, 1997 – Summary

Purpose

Consolidates tenancy law for residential premises in West Bengal, establishing rights, rent control, and eviction procedures.

Key Provisions

• Controller of Premises appointed (3‑year term, eligible for reappointment) with civil‑court powers.
• Fitness certificate required before letting/occupying.
• Rent ceiling fixed at commencement‑date rent; revisable by Controller.
• Landlord duties: maintenance, no rent hike without permission.
• Tenant duties: pay rent, no sub‑let without consent.
• Eviction grounds: rent default (2+ months), waste/nuisance, unauthorised sub‑let, landlord’s own need, demolition, public purpose.
• Procedure: Application to Controller → hearing → order → reasonable vacate period.
• Appeals to High Court within 30 days.
• Penalties up to ₹50,000 + ₹1,000/day for continuing offence.

Exclusions

Hotels, cinemas, clubs, government‑owned commercial premises.

The Act repealed the Bengal Premises Tenancy Act, 1956.