Query regarding TDS deduction on rent paid to UAE-based NRI property owner

Divya Sharma (Salaried) (41 Points)

16 July 2023  

Hello,

This is to request your guidance regarding TDS deduction by the tenant before paying rent to the NRI owner of a residential property in India.

I live in a rented flat in Noida, U.P., paying a rent of less than 2 lakhs per annum (INR). The flat owner is an NRI residing in Dubai, UAE. I understand that India has a Double Tax Avoidance Agreement with the UAE. 

Please advise whether I, as a tenant, am liable to deduct TDS before paying rent every month to the NRI owner. If yes, then how much is the deduction and how should I go about the formalities of deducting and depositing this amount to the tax authorities? The rented flat is for residential use only.