Who Pays for Maintenance in a Dubai Rental Property?

When renting a property in Dubai, it’s essential for both tenants and landlords to be aware of who is responsible for covering maintenance and repair costs. This clarity helps to avoid disputes and maintain a positive rental experience. According to the law, landlords are generally responsible for major repairs that affect the structure, safety, or livability of a property. This can include fixing issues with the building’s foundation, roof, or main plumbing systems. These repairs are considered the landlord’s responsibility because they impact the core integrity of the property and go beyond simple wear and tear.

On the other hand, tenants are usually expected to handle minor repairs and routine maintenance. This might include replacing a broken tile, fixing a dripping faucet, or maintaining the landscaping. A good rule of thumb is that if a repair costs under AED 500, it is likely to be a tenant’s responsibility unless otherwise stipulated in the contract. For example, if a tenant accidentally breaks a window or damages a part of the interior, they would typically need to cover the cost of repair.

The complication arises when tenancy contracts add specific terms that could shift some of these responsibilities. In some cases, landlords may include clauses that place more minor maintenance expenses on the tenant. For this reason, it’s critical for both parties to thoroughly review the contract before signing. Tenants should look out for terms such as “full maintenance responsibility” or any other wording that could indicate a transfer of costs usually borne by the landlord.

What If My Landlord Doesn't Carry Our The Necessary Repairs?

If a landlord fails to carry out necessary repairs, such as addressing a major plumbing failure, tenants have the right to escalate the issue to the Dubai Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC). The RDSC can intervene, investigate the claim, and enforce regulations to ensure compliance. In these situations, tenants should keep a record of all communication with the landlord, including emails and messages, as proof of their efforts to address the issue amicably.

Another important point is that even if a contract transfers some maintenance responsibilities to the tenant, landlords are still required by law to ensure the property is fit for occupancy and meets the basic standards of safety and comfort. For example, if an air conditioning unit breaks down during the height of summer, and it is due to a lack of maintenance by the landlord, it would be their responsibility to repair or replace it promptly. Tenants, in such cases, should be proactive in reporting issues as soon as they arise and documenting everything in writing.

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Ultimately,

the balance of maintenance obligations should be clearly outlined in every tenancy agreement. For tenants moving into new rental properties, it’s advisable to conduct a thorough inspection and document the condition of the property through photos or a written checklist. This can help prevent disputes when moving out, as both parties will have a reference point for what condition the property was in when the tenancy began.