Q: I have been living in a rental apartment in Dubai for the past five years but plan to move out soon. Some bathroom fittings and other fixtures have come loose from normal use. Will I be responsible for the cost of repairs? Will my security deposit be deducted? What can I do if the real estate company charges me fees and I think this is unfair?
A: Since you live in a rented apartment in Dubai, the provisions of Law No. 2007 of 26 on the Regulation of Landlord-Tenant Relations in the Emirate of Dubai apply.
In Dubai, landlords are obliged to repair fixtures and appliances in the leased premises, unless the lease agreement stipulates that the tenant is responsible for the maintenance and repair work of the apartment, as stipulated in Article 16 of the Dubai Rent Law.
Tenants are responsible for handing over the rented apartment to the landlord in good condition (normal wear and tear excepted) upon vacating, as stipulated in Article 21 of the Dubai Rent Law.
Upon repossession of the property, the landlord shall return the security deposit to the tenant. If the tenant owes any fees, the landlord may deduct them from the security deposit, as provided for in Article 20 of the Dubai Rent Law.
According to the above legal provisions, assuming that the lease contract does not mention that you are responsible for maintaining the fixtures and equipment of the rental apartment, you will not be responsible for any costs related to repairing the bathroom fittings, since you mentioned that the fittings have become loose due to regular use, which is " Normal wear and tear."
Therefore, when you vacate the apartment, the landlord does not have the right to deduct part of your deposit to repair bathroom fittings.
However, if the landlord insists on withholding part of the deposit, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Rental Disputes Center and have it submitted to an arbitral tribunal for a decision.
