GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Using your private property for commercial purposes may seem like a fantastic way to grow your business if you have an office at home. It has been common practice to convert a residential property for commercial use to increase income. However, housing societies usually don't appreciate it when a whole residential unit is used for business.

Owners are permitted to use a portion of the property for commercial purposes. However, there are several restrictions and legislations that you must be aware of to use your apartment as an office space. In addition, getting the best home insurance policy in India can help you save money when you rent or buy a business space.

Is there a regulation in India that governs how residential property is used and rented out?
Across Indian cities, the zoning law is enacted by the local municipal government or authorities. It governs the use and allocation of land to different services and purposes. According to the legislation, commercial activity should be kept out of residential areas for the benefit of residents and to encourage the growth of the proper commercial regions.

What exactly does the law state?
It is essential to note that different states have different levels of leniency when it comes to commercial use. In some states, professional service providers such as doctors, lawyers, and chartered accountants are permitted to use up to 30% of their homes for business purposes. But in other states, they are not.

Before converting a residential property into commercial space, ensure that it's permitted. You must get clearance from the local housing authority. Once a property has been officially considered for retail space, it will be regarded as such for all purposes, including paying a higher property tax rate than a residential property.

Things to keep in mind when turning a residential property into a place of work.
Commercial activity is any activity related to the buying and selling of merchandise. Most housing societies allow the operation of businesses such as professions, services, and the teaching of specific art forms.
Activities such as yoga classes, tuition classes, or the services of chartered accountants, doctors, and lawyers are not considered as commercial activities. Commercial activity within residential properties may not be authorised due to security concerns as they create a significant traffic hazard for the neighbourhood.

For those who are willing to use their home for commercial purposes, here are a few considerations to bear in mind:

1. Before making an application, make sure you know exactly how much space you'll need and what kind of business you want to start.

2. Obtain a permit to operate a business from the local municipality.

3. Ensure that your clients are not using communal spaces such as the parking lot or other amenities.

4. If your home is turned into a business, you may have to pay more property taxes.

Many people find that running a business from home is an excellent way to save money since the cost of rent and transportation are significantly reduced.

Before starting a business in a residential space, get approval from the housing society, local councils, and zoning authorities. Also, get the best home insurance policy in India so that you can keep your apartment safe as you turn it into a business.

Click HERE to get the best home insurance policy in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Searching for your perfect home can be quite overwhelming, and renting can make it even more stressful if not done correctly. Renting a house is generally referred to as a property occupied by somebody other than the house owner. There are several things one must consider before finalising a house, and you need to ensure that you clarify all your doubts before arriving at a conclusive decision and paying.

In this article, we will discuss what you should know before renting a house for the first time. These points will not only help you stay calm while renting but also ensure that you make a well-informed decision before going ahead with the agreement. After all, it's going to be your home once you move in.

1. Location:
Think about the location before moving in. Notice the surroundings and the essential services and facilities available in the vicinity. Is it a school or a pub? Will you be comfortable with loud music and traffic noise? Check the area for essential services for you before signing the agreement.

2. Amenities:
Check the amenities like the washing machine, geyser, air conditioner, etc., if they come along with the house. It is your responsibility to examine these inventories and their working and get the landlord to confirm their satisfactory working in writing. It would be best to ask the landlord to clarify the repair or replacement of these appliances.

3. Release clause:
A release clause entails that the tenant must pay a fee and find a replacement if they wish to release themselves from the contract and move out of the house. Discuss the clause with your landlord beforehand.

4. Repaint:
Enquire if your landlord will be repainting the house before you move in. And if they have any plans to paint or deep clean the house, it would be good to get the work done before you sign the tenancy agreement and make the payment.

5. Pets:
It is a good idea to discuss if pets are allowed during the negotiations with your landlord. Breaching the tenancy agreement by keeping a pet can lead to possession and eviction in the future.

6. Water:
During the house inspection, open the taps and shower and check the water pressure. In case of a problem, negotiate with your landlord before signing the agreement.

7. Advance:
Usually, landlords ask for two months' payment in advance, but there is no fixed amount. They can maintain discretion about the deposit amount. Make sure you bring this up during your negotiation or agreement.

8. Terms and conditions:
Read the agreement very carefully. You can challenge terms and conditions you are uncomfortable with or find confusing. But you must do this before you sign the deal. Never sign an agreement without having complete knowledge about it. Any carelessness done during this period can have adverse consequences later.

Now that we have discussed the things you should know before renting a house for the first time, it would be wise to verify with your landlord if he has purchased home insurance for the home. Being covered under the umbrella of the best home insurance in India can keep you relaxed and free from worries of any damage or theft at your rented apartment. Ensuring security should be on the top of your priority list before shifting to a rented home.

Click HERE to know more about the best home insurance in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Life is full of unexpected events, but the downside is that even the slightest miscommunication can put your goals at risk. A good general insurance lets you choose your protection against the costs of accidents and natural disasters — from theft to car collisions, fire damage to travel mishaps. And with this flexibility, you can mix and match the coverage you need from a general insurance online quote and get an affordable and customised plan.

Let’s understand the necessity of travel insurance:
Travel insurance seems unnecessary, and travellers underestimate the significance of travel insurance, as its purpose only comes to the fore when things go wrong. For example, if a flight gets cancelled unexpectedly, or if you get sick while travelling.

Travel insurance is a particular type of insurance that covers you for travel-related perils. It is not the same as your regular home, car, or health insurance. And, if you want to know why it is so important, read on.

1. Loss of luggage:
Landing at your destination and finding out your luggage is missing? And you're stuck with only the stuff you brought along - which isn't much. Fortunately, most insurance companies will provide a certain amount as compensation for such incidents as part of their policy.

2. Cancelled / Delayed trip:
If you plan to postpone, cancel or rearrange your trip, you can rest easy knowing that your travel insurance policy may provide you with financial protection. Trip delays, cancellations, and curtailments are all covered in case of an emergency.

3. Hospitalisation and Emergency expenses:
Travelling doesn't mean that you are entirely safe from the risks of getting hospitalised. Travellers often fall ill in the middle of their trip and have to even stay in a hospital if the situation worsens.
The holiday can turn into a nightmare if you don't have a valid policy covering hospitalisation expenses. Your travel insurance covers all your transportation, food, and medical expenses on getting hospitalised during your trip.

4. Fraud Protection:
It can happen to anyone. You're enjoying a vacation, and all of a sudden, your financial security gets compromised. Maybe you lost your debit credit card, or worse — you notice a fraud transition on your credit card. Maybe this is the first time such an incident has occurred to you, but it could happen again.

5. Liability protection:
While you're on your trip, keep an eye out for any personal injury or property damage. You could be held legally liable for it. But just because something is likely doesn't mean it will happen. With proper liability protection in place, you won't have to worry about paying for others' mistakes.

If you're concerned about safe and worry-free travel, there's no better time than now to buy travel insurance. Increased awareness means that more and more consumers are looking for a way to protect themselves when they travel.

Are you someone who wants protection and doesn't want to risk losing your vacation money or belongings? In such an accident or illness, there's no better time than now to get travel insurance. General insurance online quote is essential for financial security. These policies protect you against all possible financial risks, including travel you might face in your life. It is also a great way to protect your other assets and valuable possessions.

Click HERE to get general insurance online quote.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

The majority of house buyers and sellers use the services of real estate brokers to make the process hassle-free. A real estate broker is a middleman who connects a buyer and a seller. An experienced broker can help you secure a good deal while keeping both parties' interests in mind. Unfortunately, the real estate sector in India is rife with misinformation and uncertified real estate agents.

As a result, finding the perfect broker is crucial in making informed decisions and avoiding costly mistakes. Finding the right real estate broker is as important as finding the best home insurance policy. Here is how to pick one.

1. Authenticity:
Reputation is a key component in the real estate sector. A reputable broker maintains relationships with developers, owners, and other real estate professionals. Question at least two clients about the agent's authenticity, knowledge, service quality, and, if possible, the pricing of homes they acquired through your agent. Preferably opt for a licensed broker who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
Brokers must be RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) registered in addition to being a part of a reputed organization. The state's RERA website posts all of the agent's info. You can look up these facts on the website using the registration ID of the real estate broker.

2. Understanding of the neighbourhood:
When looking for a real estate broker, the first thing you should look for is someone who knows the neighbourhood. Your broker should be well-versed in the local market conditions.
A good real estate broker is well suited to reveal the nitty-gritty of an area, the real estate inventory, and the prospects. It's also necessary to know current property trends. You'll be in good hands if you find a broker familiar with the local rules and regulations regarding property purchases.

3. Potential prospects:
Do not finalise a broker on the spur of the moment with a single offer. Investigate the market and speak with at least two or three agents. You can ask questions, learn about their experience and working style, and determine their areas of specialisation and professionalism by meeting and interviewing a few possible brokers.

4. Brokerage:
It's critical to negotiate your agent's fee upfront without ambiguity. In most Indian cities, the fee is usually 2% for transactions worth more than Rs 50 lakh and 1% for transactions below. Real estate brokers frequently skip the fee section and charge a high percentage after the contract is closed, leading to disagreements.

Buying a home is both a financial and emotional investment. Many homeowners will also agree that purchasing a home is a complicated job. The right real estate agent can make the process less stressful while ensuring that you get a decent deal.

After finding a great deal on the house, the sense of claiming it as your own is unquestionably a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It is suggested to purchase home insurance coverage to protect your new home from undesired circumstances and shield your personal space with a layer of financial protection.

To know more about home insurance, click HERE .

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.