20-Point Checklist: Questions to Ask Before Joining a PG in Chennai
Don't join a PG without asking these 20 critical questions first. From hidden charges to safety measures, this checklist ensures you make the right choice.
By SPS Men's PG · · 9 min read · Guide
Choosing the wrong PG can turn your Chennai experience into a nightmare. Use this 20-point checklist to evaluate any PG accommodation before committing.
Financial Questions (1-5)
1. What is the total monthly cost?
Ask for a complete breakdown: rent + electricity + food + WiFi + laundry. Avoid PGs that charge separately for everything.
2. What is the deposit amount?
Standard: 1-2 months. Be cautious of PGs asking for 3+ months or non-refundable deposits.
3. Are there any hidden charges?
Ask about maintenance fees, AC charges, festival bonuses, and exit penalties.
4. What is the notice period?
Standard: 15-30 days. Avoid PGs with 2-3 month notice periods.
5. How is the deposit refund handled?
Get the refund timeline and deduction policy in writing.
Facility Questions (6-10)
6. Is AC included in the rent?
Some PGs charge ₹1,000-3,000 extra for AC usage. Clarify upfront. Read our facilities guide for must-have amenities.
7. What is the WiFi speed?
Test it during your visit. Minimum 25 Mbps for remote work.
8. How is hot water provided?
24/7 geyser is ideal. Solar heaters may not work during monsoon.
9. Is power backup available?
Generator or inverter? How long can it run? Critical during Chennai's summer outages.
10. What laundry facilities are available?
Washing machine access, laundry service, or do-it-yourself?
Food Questions (11-13)
11. How many meals are included?
Best PGs offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Some only offer two meals.
12. Can you taste the food?
Always taste before committing. Quality South Indian meals make a huge difference.
13. Are dietary preferences accommodated?
Vegetarian, non-vegetarian, Jain, North Indian options?
Safety Questions (14-17)
14. Is there 24/7 security?
Guard/caretaker presence, CCTV, biometric/key card entry. Read our safety guide.
15. Who has access to your room?
Personal lock? Master key policy?
16. What is the guest/visitor policy?
Entry timings, visitor registration, common area access.
17. Is the area safe at night?
Check street lighting, nearby police station, and talk to current residents.
Lifestyle Questions (18-20)
18. What are the house rules?
Curfew timing, noise policy, smoking/drinking rules, cooking restrictions.
19. How is the room allocated?
Can you choose your roommate? Room change policy?
20. Talk to current residents
The most honest review comes from people living there. Ask about maintenance responsiveness and overall satisfaction.
SPS Men's PG: Passes All 20 Checks
SPS Men's PG in Thousand Lights proudly meets every criterion:
- Transparent all-inclusive pricing from ₹6,000/month
- 1-month refundable deposit, 15-day notice period
- AC, 50+ Mbps WiFi, 24/7 hot water and power backup
- 3 home-cooked meals daily
- CCTV security, personal lockers, caretaker support
Schedule a visit today! Call: 9176800842