Accommodation in Mumbai

Finding the right kind of accommodation in Mumbai, whether you’re driven by budget, taste, or practicality, can be a real challenge. The bustling financial capital of India is famous for its prolific film industry, heavy rains, and cricket fanaticism, but it’s also notorious for being one of the country’s most expensive real estate markets, both in terms of buying and renting.

Unless you’re planning to settle in Mumbai for the long haul, you’ll likely choose to rent rather than buy property. The rental market here is dynamic, with prices seeing significant increases in recent years, though there have been some signs of stabilisation.

Areas and suburbs in Mumbai

Mumbai offers a wide variety of neighbourhoods and suburbs, each with its own character and appeal. From the trendy streets of Bandra West to the quieter, leafy avenues of Khar West, there’s something for everyone. But bear in mind that living in the city comes at a cost, particularly in the more desirable areas.

Emerging suburbs like Thane, Navi Mumbai and Airoli are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower prices and improved infrastructure. If you’re looking for more space or a quieter lifestyle, these areas might be worth considering.

For those who prefer being closer to the action, areas like Andheri and Juhu remain evergreen favourites, offering a mix of convenience and lifestyle. However, these come with a premium price tag, reflecting their popularity and prime location.

Read more about the Best (and Worst) Areas and Suburbs in Mumbai.

Types of accommodation in Mumbai

Space in Mumbai is at a premium, and you might have to adjust your expectations. While you may have dreamed of a spacious Indian bungalow, the reality is that most available housing in Mumbai consists of compact apartments. Flats here are typically small, ranging from studio apartments to units with two or three bedrooms at most.

Individual houses and villas do exist, but they are scarce, highly sought after, and command steep prices. The demand for these larger homes has risen, especially post-pandemic, as more people look for spacious accommodations that support remote working lifestyles.

Short lets

If you’re on a shorter assignment or need temporary accommodation while searching for something permanent, short lets in Mumbai offer several appealing options. Serviced apartments are particularly popular, especially in areas like Bandra, Andheri and Juhu. These provide the flexibility of a short-term lease with the comfort of home-like amenities, such as kitchens and living spaces. If you’re after something more luxurious, high-end serviced apartments cater to corporate clients with upscale facilities and services.

Additionally, co-living spaces are gaining traction among young professionals and students. These offer a sense of community with shared living arrangements and communal facilities. Platforms like Airbnb also provide unique rental options, giving you a taste of local living during your stay.

Furnished vs unfurnished properties

When deciding between furnished and unfurnished properties in Mumbai, you’ll find that the choice largely depends on your personal needs and the length of your stay. Approximately 60 percent of rentals in the city are offered unfurnished, allowing you to personalise your space. This option tends to be more affordable and is popular in areas where smaller units are in high demand.

On the other hand, furnished rentals can be a convenient choice if you’d rather avoid the hassle of moving furniture or shipping belongings. Landlords in Mumbai are generally open to furnishing properties upon request, though this may come with a slightly higher rent. The willingness to furnish often varies by neighbourhood and property type, so it’s worth discussing your preferences with your landlord.

Useful links

• Airbnb
• Stanza Living

Finding accommodation in Mumbai

When it comes to finding accommodation in Mumbai, you might be fortunate enough to have your housing sorted by your employer. This can save you the hassle of navigating the city’s competitive real estate market. But with relocation packages increasingly omitting housing, you may find yourself needing to secure a place on your own.

In such cases, hiring a reliable real estate agent can be invaluable. They’ll help you navigate the market, ensuring that the property meets all due diligence requirements. It’s crucial, however, to verify the credentials of any agent you work with, as the quality of service can vary. Checking reviews and credentials is a good start to ensure they’re reputable.

If you prefer to search independently, numerous online platforms can help you find a home. Sites like MagicBricks, NoBroker, and 99acres offer a range of listings across various neighbourhoods. These platforms provide tools to filter your search by location, price, and amenities, making it easier to find accommodation that suits your needs.

Useful links

• MagicBricks
• NoBroker
• 99acres
• Makaan

Renting accommodation in Mumbai

In a city with such high rental prices, understanding the ins and outs of rental agreements is crucial. From deposits and utility charges to notice periods, every detail matters when renting accommodation in Mumbai.

Making an application

When applying for a rental property in Mumbai, it’s essential to have your documents in order. Typically, you’ll need to provide proof of identity, proof of employment or income, and sometimes references. Be prepared for a competitive market, where having everything ready can make a significant difference.

Leases

Leases in Mumbai can be a bit tricky, and it’s important to be aware of the legal landscape. While written agreements are standard, informal rental arrangements are still common. These informal agreements might seem convenient, but they come with risks, such as limited legal recourse if disputes arise. For your protection, ensure that any rental agreement is documented in a formal lease signed by both parties.

Many landlords prefer to offer 11-month leases to avoid the stricter regulations that come with 12-month or longer agreements. These shorter leases bypass certain rental control laws, but they can also leave you more vulnerable to sudden rent increases or other changes.

Deposits

Deposits are a key part of rental agreements in Mumbai. Historically, landlords charged high deposits – sometimes up to 11 months’ rent. Thankfully, recent regulations have capped deposits at no more than three months’ rent. This change offers more protection for tenants, ensuring that you don’t have to lock up too much money in a deposit.

Notice periods

Notice periods are an important aspect of any lease. If you or your landlord wish to end the lease early, a notice period of two to three months is usually required. Make sure this is clearly outlined in your lease to avoid any misunderstandings.

Utilities in Mumbai

As a tenant in Mumbai, you’ll typically be responsible for covering the costs of utilities, including electricity, water, gas, and any maintenance charges. It’s crucial to clarify these details in your lease agreement to avoid unexpected costs later.

The availability, reliability, and cost of utilities can vary significantly depending on your location within the city, so it’s important to understand what to expect and how to manage these services effectively.

Electricity

Electricity in Mumbai is primarily supplied by Adani Electricity and the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL). The standard voltage is 230V, with a frequency of 50Hz, using Type D and Type M plugs. If you’re coming from the US, you’ll need both a plug adapter and a voltage converter, whereas UK expats will generally only need a plug adapter.

Setting up an electricity connection is straightforward. Choose your provider, submit the required documents (like identity proof and address proof), and request a new connection either online or at a customer service centre. If you’re looking to switch providers, make sure to clear any outstanding dues with your current provider before initiating the transfer.

Recently, electricity tariffs have seen a 10 percent increase, with additional fuel surcharges driving up costs further. Payment methods include online payments via the provider’s website, bank transfers, and cash payments at designated centres. Setting up automatic payments is a good option to ensure you never miss a bill, especially if you’re managing multiple utilities.

Gas

In Mumbai, you’ll find both piped gas and bottled gas (LPG). Piped gas is more common in developed areas like Bandra and South Mumbai, offering convenience and safety with a constant supply. Bottled gas, which requires periodic refills, is still widely used in areas without piped infrastructure.

For piped gas, apply online or through customer service. For bottled gas, contact suppliers like Bharat Gas or Indane Gas for cylinder delivery. Be aware of safety regulations, such as ensuring regular maintenance of gas appliances and proper ventilation in your home.

Payment for gas services can usually be made online, through third-party apps, or in cash. Most suppliers also offer the convenience of automatic payments, helping you keep track of your bills.

Water

The main water supplier in Mumbai is the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), responsible for the city’s water distribution. Tap water in Mumbai is generally considered safe to drink, but it’s wise to maintain the cleanliness of your building’s storage tanks and plumbing. Many residents still prefer to use filtered or bottled water for drinking, with reverse osmosis (RO) systems being a popular choice.

Water supply reliability can vary by area. In some underdeveloped regions, you might need to rely on water tankers during shortages. Water bills can be paid online via the BMC portal, in person at municipal offices, or through electronic payment options like UPI and debit cards.

Bins and recycling

Mumbai’s waste management is handled by the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), which oversees waste collection and disposal. Waste is typically segregated into biodegradable, recyclable, and general waste, with collection schedules varying by area. Many housing societies have dedicated teams for waste management, ensuring regular pickups.

Recent initiatives like the Plastic Recyclothon and E-Waste Recyclothon have gained traction, promoting responsible disposal of plastic and electronic waste. For hazardous materials, special recycling events or local waste management services offer safe disposal options.

Payment for waste management services can be made online, through third-party platforms, or in cash at municipal offices. Connecting with your housing society is often the best first step to understanding the waste management practices in your area.

Internet

High-speed internet in Mumbai is widely available, especially in affluent neighbourhoods like Bandra, Juhu, and South Mumbai. Fibre optic connections are the fastest and most reliable, with providers like Tata Play Fiber, Airtel, and JioFiber offering extensive coverage. ADSL is also available, though it’s generally slower and less reliable.

Setting up an internet connection involves choosing a provider, selecting a plan that suits your needs, and arranging for installation. Payment can be made online, via automatic payments, or in cash at service centres. Comparison websites and expat communities are great resources for finding the best internet service provider in your area.

See Keeping in Touch in India for more on telecommunications in the country.

Useful links

• Adani Electricity and MSEDCL
• Bharat Gas
• Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation