Latest news with #LawNo.26of2007
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.
Hi Dubai
17-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai: When Are Landlords Required to Refund Security Deposits in Full to Tenants?
Question: I am planning to move out of my Dubai apartment soon. I wish to understand the rules around the security deposit I had given when I moved in. Does the owner have the right to deduct anything from that amount? If so, what are the reasons for which he can do so? Answer: In Dubai, landlords are required to refund the security deposit collected from tenants upon vacating the apartment, as stated in Article 20 of Law No. 26 of 2007, which governs landlord-tenant relations in the emirate. The law mandates that a landlord must refund the full deposit or any remaining balance to the tenant after the lease ends. However, tenants are obliged to return the rented property in good condition, barring normal wear and tear and damages beyond their control, as per Article 21 of the Dubai Rent Law. If a tenant leaves the property in a condition beyond reasonable wear and tear, the landlord may deduct the necessary amount from the deposit to cover the repair costs. Common reasons for security deposit deductions include: Damage to property : If the tenant has caused harm to the apartment or its fixtures, the landlord can deduct repair costs. : If the tenant has caused harm to the apartment or its fixtures, the landlord can deduct repair costs. Unpaid bills: If utility bills or other charges remain unpaid, the deposit may be used to settle these dues. If there is no damage beyond normal wear and tear, landlords are obligated to refund the full security deposit as per the tenancy agreement. News Source: Khaleej Times
