How to Check if a PG is Legal and Safe

Q: How do I know if a PG is registered?

Check if the PG has a trade license, whether electricity/water bills are charged under commercial rates, and ask for municipal approval documents. A genuine PG owner will share these.

Q: Is it safe for women to stay in PGs?

Yes—if you choose a PG with CCTV, secure entry, a warden/security guard, and verified ownership. Always speak to current tenants before deciding.

Q: What documents should I get before joining a PG?

You should have a written PG/rental agreement, rent receipt or digital payment proof, and clear terms for deposit refund, rules, and facilities.

Q: Can I take legal action if a PG owner doesn’t refund my deposit?

Yes. If you have a written agreement and proof of payment, you can file a complaint with the local consumer forum or the police.

Finding a PG (Paying Guest accommodation) in Trivandrum or any city can be challenging. Rent may look affordable, and facilities may seem attractive — but how do you know if the PG is legal, trustworthy, and safe? Choosing the wrong one can lead to problems like sudden eviction, unsafe living conditions, or disputes with owners.

In this guide, we’ll cover the step-by-step checks you should do before finalizing a PG.

1. Check if the PG is Legally Registered

Not all PGs operate with proper approval. To ensure you’re staying in a legal PG accommodation:

Ask the owner if the property is registered with the local municipal authority.
Confirm if the PG has a trade license or lodging license (many cities require this for renting rooms).
Check if the PG is paying commercial electricity and water charges, not domestic ones.

⚠️ If the owner refuses to share documents, it may be an unregistered PG.

2. Verify Owner Identity and Agreement

Before you move in:

Ask for a written rental/PG agreement. This should mention rent, deposit, notice period, facilities, and rules.
Check the owner’s ID proof (Aadhar, PAN, or similar).
Avoid cash-only dealings — insist on digital or bank payments for rent and deposit, so you have proof.

3. Inspect Safety Features on the Property

Safety should be your top priority. Look for:

CCTV cameras in entry/exit points and common areas.
Secure locks on rooms and main gates.
Emergency exits and fire safety equipment.
Adequate lighting in corridors and outside areas.

For women’s PGs, check if there is a warden or security guard.

4. Talk to Current Tenants

One of the best ways to know if a PG is safe and well-managed is to talk to people already living there.

Ask them about cleanliness, food quality, and how management responds to complaints.
Check if there have been past issues like theft, harassment, or sudden rent hikes.
Genuine tenants will give you honest feedback.

5. Look for Online Reviews and Listings

Many PGs are now listed on platforms like Google Maps, Justdial, Sulekha, and TrivandrumPG.com.

Search for the PG’s name and check Google reviews.
Look for consistency — if multiple tenants complain about the same issue, take it seriously.
Avoid PGs with no digital presence and no reviews, unless verified by someone you trust.

6. Clarify Rules and Restrictions

A PG may be legal but still uncomfortable if rules don’t suit you. Ask about:

Timings (late-night entry, visitors allowed or not)
Food (included or not, veg/non-veg restrictions)
Electricity charges (included in rent or extra)
Deposit refund policy

Get everything in writing to avoid disputes.

7. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, when you visit the PG, notice the vibe of the place.

Is the area safe and well-connected?
Do you feel comfortable staying there?
Are the staff/owners transparent and approachable?

If something feels off, it’s better to walk away and find another option.

Final Thoughts

Staying in a safe and legal PG is not just about comfort — it’s about your rights, safety, and peace of mind. By checking legal documents, agreements, safety features, and tenant feedback, you can avoid most risks.

👉 Looking for verified PGs in Trivandrum? Browse location-based listings on TrivandrumPG.com and connect directly with owners.

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Frequently Asked Questions about PG Legality & Safety

Clear answers to common doubts about choosing a legal and safe PG in Trivandrum.

Is every PG in Trivandrum legal?

Not necessarily. Some PGs operate without proper municipal or lodging licenses. Always ask the owner for registration proof or a trade license before moving in.

How do I know if a PG is registered?

Check if the PG has a trade license, whether electricity/water bills are charged under commercial rates, and ask for municipal approval documents. A genuine PG owner will share these.

Is it safe for women to stay in PGs?

Yes—if you choose a PG with CCTV, secure entry, a warden/security guard, and verified ownership. Always speak to current tenants before deciding.

What documents should I get before joining a PG?

You should have a written PG/rental agreement, rent receipt or digital payment proof, and clear terms for deposit refund, rules, and facilities.

Can I take legal action if a PG owner doesn’t refund my deposit?

Yes. If you have a written agreement and proof of payment, you can file a complaint with the local consumer forum or the police.