Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about UrbanKey, from finding your next home to listing your property.
General Questions
What is UrbanKey?
UrbanKey is India's premier broker-free rental platform connecting verified tenants directly with verified landlords. We leverage AI technology to simplify property search, document verification, and rent agreement generation.
Is UrbanKey really broker-free?
Yes! UrbanKey is designed to connect tenants directly with landlords. There are absolutely no brokerage fees charged by our platform. You pay only the rent and security deposit agreed upon with the landlord.
Why do I need to complete KYC verification?
To ensure the safety and security of all our users, we require mandatory Aadhar verification. This builds a trustworthy ecosystem and prevents fraud on both sides of the rental process. Landlords also verify their property documents for authenticity.
Which cities does UrbanKey operate in?
Currently, UrbanKey operates in Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai. We're expanding to more cities soon!
AI-Powered Features
How does the AI semantic search work?
Our platform uses advanced AI (RAG - Retrieval Augmented Generation) to understand natural language. Instead of clicking through endless filters, you can simply type "Show me 2BHK apartments near metro station under ₹25,000 with power backup" and get precise, relevant matches.
What is the AI chatbot and how can I use it?
The UrbanKey AI Assistant is available 24/7 on our platform (visible after login). You can ask it anything about properties, get recommendations, or learn about our features. It's powered by Google Gemini and understands your property database.
How accurate are the AI-generated property tags?
Our AI automatically calculates metro distances, detects amenities, and suggests property features. While we strive for accuracy, we recommend verifying critical information directly with the landlord.
For Tenants
How do I find and apply for a property?
Use our AI-powered search to find properties that match your preferences. Once you find a property you love, you can send an enquiry, schedule a visit, or save it to your wishlist. The landlord will review your verified profile and respond accordingly.
What is the wishlist feature?
You can save properties you're interested in to your wishlist by clicking the heart icon on any property card. This helps you keep track of properties you like and compare them later.
How do I schedule a property visit?
On any property page, click the "Schedule Visit" button. Choose your preferred date and time, add any notes, and send the request. The landlord will receive your request and confirm the visit.
Can I chat with landlords directly?
Yes! Each property page has a WhatsApp button that opens a direct chat with the landlord. This is the fastest way to get your questions answered. You can also send formal enquiries through the platform.
How does the rent agreement work?
Once your application is approved, the landlord will create a digital rent agreement. You'll receive it for review and e-signature. After both parties sign, the agreement becomes legally binding, and you can proceed with the security deposit and first month's rent.
For Landlords
How do I list my property?
After completing your landlord verification, go to your dashboard and click "List New Property." Fill in the property details including photos, rent, amenities, and location. Our AI will automatically calculate metro distance and suggest tags. Once submitted, your property will be visible to tenants.
How much does it cost to list a property?
Listing your property on UrbanKey is completely free! There are no upfront fees, no hidden charges, and no brokerage commissions. You pay nothing to list—only the rent you receive from tenants.
How do I manage tenant enquiries and leads?
All enquiries appear in your landlord dashboard under "Leads." You can view each lead's verified profile, message, and contact preference. You can update lead status (New/Contacted/Converted/Closed) to track your pipeline effectively.
How do I approve tenant applications?
When a tenant applies for your property, you'll receive a notification. Review their verified profile and rental history in the Leads section. If satisfied, you can mark the lead as "Converted" and proceed to create a rental agreement.
How does the rent agreement generation work?
When you're ready to finalize with a tenant, click "Create Agreement" from the lead. Fill in the start date, end date, monthly rent, and security deposit. The system generates a professional PDF agreement that both parties can sign digitally.
Can I track rent payments?
Yes! Once an agreement is active, you can view all rent payments in the agreement details page. Tenants record their payments, and you can mark them as received. You'll also see payment history and upcoming dues.
Payments & Transactions
How are rent payments processed?
Tenants can record their rent payments through the platform. The landlord then marks the payment as received. While UrbanKey doesn't process payments directly, we provide tracking and receipt generation for your records.
Is the security deposit handled through UrbanKey?
The security deposit amount is specified in the rental agreement. UrbanKey tracks the deposit as part of the agreement but doesn't hold or process the funds. The deposit is handled directly between tenant and landlord.
Are there any transaction fees?
UrbanKey does not charge any transaction fees. The platform is completely free for both tenants and landlords. You only pay the agreed rent and deposit directly to the landlord.
Verification & Security
What documents do I need for verification?
Tenants need to upload a clear image of their Aadhar card. Landlords need to upload Aadhar card and property ownership documents (like sale deed or property tax receipt). All documents are encrypted and stored securely.
How long does verification take?
Document verification typically takes 24-48 hours. Our admin team reviews submissions during business hours. You'll receive an email notification once verification is complete.
Is my data secure?
Yes! We use industry-standard encryption for all sensitive data. Documents are stored securely, and we never share your personal information without consent. Our platform follows data protection best practices.
Rent Agreements
Are UrbanKey rent agreements legally valid?
Yes! Our rent agreements are generated using legally compliant templates that adhere to Indian rental laws. When both parties sign digitally, the agreement becomes a legally binding document.
Can I customize the agreement terms?
Absolutely. Landlords can add special conditions and customize terms before sending the agreement to tenants. You can also modify the standard terms as needed.
What happens after both parties sign?
Once both parties sign, the agreement becomes active. The property is marked as occupied, and payment tracking begins. Both parties can download the signed PDF anytime from their dashboard.
Support & Contact
How can I contact support?
You can reach us at support@urbankey.com. Our support team is available Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM IST. We typically respond within 24 hours.
What if I face technical issues?
Use the AI chatbot (visible after login) for instant help, or email our support team. We're committed to resolving issues as quickly as possible.