A Detailed Guide to Navigating Security Deposit Refunds for the Tenants in the UAE
The procedure to recover a rental deposit can be challenging for tenants in the UAE. It is even more difficult viewing a recent surge in rentals. Prominent cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have approximately a 5 -10% deposit. It can exceed AED Dh10,000. Let’s understand the obligations and responsibilities of a tenant. This article will guide tenants who aim to understand the concept.
Learn More about: Law Firms in Dubai for Real Estate Matters
Obligations and Responsibilities of Tenants in United Arab Emirates
It is important to understand the Tenancy Agreement. Nevertheless, a tenancy agreement is described as a legally binding contract. Tenancy Agreement is the agreement between these two parties known as Tenant and Landlord.
It is essential to seek clarification from property agents, attorneys, legal consultants, lawyers, or official bodies in the UAE. Official authorities like RERA will help if you have doubts about specific clauses or conditions. To do so, take thorough photographic or video evidence of the property’s condition whenever you are handed over the keys.
The tenant must report any faults immediately to the landlord. There should be no delay in it. Any faults should be reported to the managing agent with supporting shreds of evidence.
Furthermore, it is important to keep a comprehensive record of maintenance. It may be required during your tenancy period.
Ways to Prevent the Conflicts or Disputes between tenant and the landlord:
It is significant to coordinate with the Landlord Before Moving Out of the rental property in the UAE. A proper scheduled meeting should be arranged with the landlord or property agent before moving out.
They will discuss the required or mandatory repairs or maintenance. It should also be sent via email for a record of discussions as a piece of evidence.
It is pivotal to maintain good terms. Both parties need to work together on various matters in the future. Therefore, to agree on a contractor for any required work maintaining friendly terms is important. It will be a way to avoid disputes or disagreements.
To settle all bills before vacating both the tenant and landlord need to be agreed on certain points. it is a way to avoid leaving unwanted furniture behind or causing any discomfort to each other through their actions.
Open Communication is much needed. Both parties need to communicate openly about the condition of the property and any potential deductions.
Additionally, the landlord and tenant need to agree on a fair assessment of repairs whenever needed. They also need to work on associated costs which require communication.
Detailed Documentation is mandatory. Taking up comprehensive photographs and videos during departure for future reference is essential.
Efforts made by the UAE Government Official to Avoid Disputes among the Tenant-Landlord Relationship:
Residents of the UAE can use the government’s official website named Dubai Rest online portal. It is used to upload supporting documents such as photographs, videos, bills, correspondence, and so forth.
In Dubai, the Rental Disputes Centre handles all the disputes regarding the conflicts or disputes. On the other hand, in Abu Dhabi, it is the Abu Dhabi Rent Dispute Settlement Committee. They take up the management of such cases or disputes.
The Dispute Resolution Process in Dubai:
Once the case is initiated in Dubai, it typically costs 3.5% of the annual rent along with the administrative costs to open a case.
They need to upload supporting documents to the Dubai Rest online portal. Following this, the case will be filled.
In case, if the landlord refuses to refund the deposit, tenants can file a case. Nonetheless, the landlord may file a counter case if proper deductions are proposed.
Tenants need to submit their tenancy contract, payment proof, correspondence, and handover acknowledgment to the relevant authorities. Moreover, the Landlord will prepare a report indicating all the damages. The tenants retain the right to dispute it.
In Abu Dhabi, the Online Process is conducted online. It is performed on the website. They can upload all the necessary documents and papers over the online portal.
