Who is responsible for covering the expenses related to repairs and upkeep due to normal wear and tear in Dubai rental properties - the landlord or the tenant?
Article Title: When a Landlord Refuses to Repaint: Understanding Your Rights in Dubai
In Dubai, the landlord is primarily responsible for maintaining the property, including major repairs such as repainting, as per Article 16 of Law No. (26) of 2007. This law expects landlords to maintain the property in a condition suitable for its intended use.
However, if a landlord refuses to perform the necessary repainting or maintenance, tenants have options. Firstly, they can send a formal notice to the landlord requesting the repainting and maintenance, preferably through registered mail or a notary to create a documented request.
If the landlord ignores this request, tenants can file a complaint with the Rental Disputes Center (RDC) in Dubai. The RDC handles disputes between tenants and landlords, including maintenance-related issues. They can order the landlord to comply with their obligations under the law.
It's important to note that tenants are generally responsible only for minor maintenance and must not make alterations without consent. Landlords should not conduct maintenance that fully restricts the tenant’s use, and any maintenance should be arranged appropriately, respecting your tenancy.
If you decide to escalate the issue to the RDC, it's advisable to have a copy of your tenancy contract, all correspondence about the repainting requests, and any evidence showing the landlord’s refusal. This will support your case for enforcement of the landlord’s maintenance duties under Law No. (26) of 2007.
If there is no response from the landlord, tenants may consider raising the issue and filing a complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre.
Ashish Mehta, the founder and Managing Partner of Ashish Mehta & Associates, qualified to practise law in Dubai, the United Kingdom, and India, provides legal advice in such matters. For more information, visit www.amalawyers.com.
Readers with questions can e-mail them to news@[your website] or send them to Legal View, Khaleej Times, PO Box 11243, Dubai.
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