Leave & License Agreement Template
The legally preferred structure for NRI property owners in India. Avoids permanent tenant rights while enabling professional Airbnb hosting.
What's included
- Licensor (NRI owner) vs Licensee (Airbnb host) — clear legal distinction
- License fee, payment schedule & bounce-back clause for late payment
- Express prohibition on assignment or sub-licensing without written consent
- Cancellation rights and 60–90 day notice period for either party
- Maintenance & structural damage liability split between parties
- Guest conduct standards and NRI owner's indemnification rights
- Termination conditions under the Indian Contracts Act, 1872
- Governing jurisdiction and dispute resolution clause
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a Leave & License and a sub-lease?
A Leave & License gives the licensee (Airbnb host) permission to occupy and use the property — it does NOT create a tenancy. This means the host cannot claim tenant rights or resist eviction under the Rent Control Act. A traditional lease or sub-lease can create such rights, making it harder for NRI owners to reclaim their property.
Is a Leave & License agreement valid for Airbnb hosting?
Yes. A Leave & License is India's most common short-term commercial arrangement. It explicitly allows the licensee to use the property for a specified purpose (Airbnb hosting) without conveying any ownership or long-term rights.
Does it need to be registered?
Agreements up to 11 months typically don't require registration in most Indian states. For longer terms, registration at the local sub-registrar is advisable. Maharashtra mandates registration of all Leave & License agreements regardless of term.