Latest news with #DubaiRentalDisputeCentre
Hi Dubai
28-04-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai: Are Landlords Allowed to Charge an Additional Fee for Basement Parking After Rent is Agreed?
Question: Is it legal for a landlord in Dubai to introduce new charges for amenities like parking after they were previously included in the rent? Answer: No, it is not legal. In Dubai, amenities such as parking spaces are considered part of the rental agreement and cannot be subject to additional charges unless explicitly stated in the contract. According to Law No. 26 of 2007, which governs landlord-tenant relationships, the rent is expected to cover the use of building facilities, including parking spaces, unless a different agreement is made. If a landlord tries to impose extra charges for an amenity that was previously free, the tenant has legal grounds to challenge this. The tenant may formally inform the landlord of their rights under the law, which clearly states that parking spaces are part of the rental agreement unless specified otherwise. When renewing a lease, both landlords and tenants can negotiate the terms, including the rent. However, if a dispute arises over new charges or any other lease terms, the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) has the authority to mediate and resolve the issue. Both parties are also required to provide at least 90 days' notice of any proposed changes to the rental contract, as outlined in Law No. 33 of 2008. Should the landlord persist with the new charges, tenants are advised to file a complaint with the RDC to ensure that their rights are upheld under Dubai's rental laws. News Source: Khaleej Times
Khaleej Times
27-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Can a landlord charge extra fee for basement parking after setting the rent?
Question: I currently live in a two-bedroom apartment in Dubai, and my lease is up for renewal. While the rent increase aligns with the official rental index, my agent has informed me that the landlord now plans to charge an additional fee for the basement parking space, which was previously included free of charge. Is it legal for the landlord to introduce a new charge for an amenity that was earlier provided at no cost? What legal options do I have? Answer: In Dubai, building amenities such as parking spaces are generally considered part of the rental agreement, and tenants are not required to pay additional fees for their use unless otherwise agreed in the contract. This is clearly outlined under Article 11 of Law No. 26 of 2007 Regulating the Relationship Between Landlords and Tenants, which states: "Unless otherwise agreed, the rent shall cover the use of the real property facilities, such as swimming pools, playgrounds, gymnasiums, health clubs, car parks, and other facilities." Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. At the time of renewing a rent contract, both a landlord and a tenant may discuss and amend the terms of a proposed renewed rent contract, including the rent. If both a landlord and a tenant disagree on the renewal terms, the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) shall be the deciding authority for the resolution of a dispute. This is under the Articles 13 and 14 of the Law No. 33 of 2008 Amending Law No. 26 of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai. When it comes to lease renewals, both landlords and tenants have the right to negotiate and propose changes to the rental terms, including rent amounts. However, if no agreement is reached on the proposed changes, the matter can be referred to the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) for resolution. Additionally, if either party wishes to make changes to the terms of a rental contract, they must provide at least 90 days' notice before the lease expires, unless both parties agree otherwise. This is under the Articles 13 and 14 of the Law No. 33 of 2008 Amending Law No. 26 of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in Dubai, which states: "Article 13 For the purposes of renewing a Rent Contract, the Landlord and Tenant may, prior to the expiry of the Rent Contract, amend any of its terms or reconsider increasing or reducing the Rent. If the Landlord and Tenant fail to reach an agreement in this regard, the Tribunal may determine the fair Rent, taking into account the criteria stipulated in Article (9) of this Law.' 'Article 14 Unless otherwise agreed by the parties to a Rent Contract, where either party wishes to amend any of its terms pursuant to Article (13) of this Law, that party must notify the other party of this intent no less than ninety (90) days before the date on which the Rent Contract expires.' In conclusion, your landlord should not impose an extra fee for an amenity that was previously included in your rent. You may wish to formally inform your landlord of your rights under the law. If the landlord insists on charging the additional fee, you have may file a complaint against the landlord with the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre.
