Where to Go for Maintenance Issues for Your Rented Property in Dubai

According to Article 16 of Law No. (26) of 2007, Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants, all maintenance on the property will be taken care of by the landlord unless otherwise agreed. Therefore, if your property is having any maintenance issues, the landlord should be able to fix the issue. No matter what the agreement, minor maintenance is normally the tenant’s responsibility, such as replacing light bulbs and fixing leaking faucets.

As for major maintenance, these should be handled by the landlords. They are as follows:  

1. Electrical wiring
2. Fire alarms, sprinklers, and smoke detectors
3. Gas appliances and venting
4. Water heaters
5. Plumbing
6. Window coverings (screening off the balcony)
7. Walls and ceilings
8. Heating and cooling systems
9. Balcony and roof
10. Floors and stairways
11. Garage and other mechanical areas

What to Do If Tenant Is Negligent

If the tenant intentionally or unintentionally damages equipment or property, then the responsibility will be shouldered by the tenant. For instance, if a tenant tears down a wall or allows a pet to urinate on the carpet, they would have to pay for the repairs.

If the landlord, on the other hand, is the one who damages the property, then the landlord is liable to make the required repairs.

For the benefit of both parties, the tenants and the landlord can hire a management company or property managers to ensure that there is fair and unbiased recourse in case of any disputes and claims arising from the agreed terms of tenancy.

Do Landlords and Tenants Need to Apply for Insurance

In Dubai, it is not mandatory that landlords and tenants should get insurance when signing a tenancy contract. However, it is much better for the landlord to get insurance as it provides financial protection from losses that might arise from damages to the property and/or its contents.

Here are some of the things covered by landlord insurance:

• Restoration and property repair costs
• Replacement and repair costs of cooling, heating, washing, cooking, and other electric appliances
• Replacement and repair costs for loss or damaged furniture
• Other expenses during the repair

Overall, the landlord insurance only insures the landlord's chattel and property. It does not include the personal properties of tenants. With this in mind, the tenants should get their own insurance to have peace of mind that their belongings are protected. Insurance covers the following:

• Home content against theft, fire, water damage and flood
• Personal possessions against theft and fire
• Rent in case of damage to the property by the landlord, or theft of tenants' belongings from the home

When Should You Get Insurance  

Having insurance is optional. However, it is recommended especially if you are a new landlord. It will prevent you from inccurring a loss because of damage that was caused by an unforeseen circumstance (like a fire).

If you are a landlord and still don't have any insurance, it is better to get one because not only does it protect you from making a loss, but it also prevents you from legal trouble.

Conclusion

Becoming a landlord is an exciting venture that could potentially make a good amount of money, but it is also a very serious business. Therefore, it is important to know your responsibilities as a landlord regarding the security deposit, rental payment, maintenance, and other issues that might arise.

Dacha Real Estate offers rental properties in Dubai that are built according to the highest standards. Our portfolio includes a wide variety of serviced apartments, furnished apartments, as well as office, and retail spaces. Let us help you find the right rental property for you and assist you with maintaining and managing your investment. Browse through our list of properties today!