How to build a good tenant-landlord relationship
As a large percentage of the population in the UAE live in rental homes, it’s safe to say that a healthy landlord and tenant relationship is a topic of great interest. That being the case, it’s fair to say that a few key ideals should be followed when looking to build an amicable connection between the two parties. In this blog, we go in-depth on how to ensure your landlord and tenant relationship remains courteous and mutually beneficial.
ROLE OF A LANDLORD
Landlords with properties for rent in Dubai UAE need to comply with the rules and regulations issued by government agencies such as Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi, Dubai Land Department and the Sharjah Municipality. According to these agencies, a landlord must:
- Maintain compliance with the local municipality’s housing rules.
- Repair the property if it’s damaged or needs renovation.
- Make sure that the property and the area around are safe and secure.
- Ensure that all services are in working condition.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF A TENANT
If you’re a tenant, it’s your duty to follow the agreed guidelines and rules issued by the landlord. Some of the responsibilities and duties of a tenant include:
- To pay rent and utility bills on time to avoid invoking penalties.
- Use the property for its intended purpose only.
- Keep the property clean, and dispose of trash properly.
- Avoid deliberate damage to the property.
- Follow all the terms of the rental agreement.
TIPS FOR A HEALTHY LANDLORD-TENANT RELATIONSHIP
CLEAR COMMUNICATION
As a landlord, it’s also crucial to clearly state your expectations to the tenants so as to reduce the chance of conflict. One of the main aspects of building a healthy landlord-and-tenant relationship is to share all the details about the property beforehand. This will allow the tenant to make an informed decision. This information will also help the tenant to quickly settle down at their new residence.
LONG-TERM TENANCY CONTRACT
If you own a property and have been lucky enough to find good tenants, it’s wise to offer them perks so that they are more likely to renew their tenancy contract. This not only gives the tenants a sense of security but also helps the landlord to avoid long empty periods between tenancies.
A DETAILED TOUR OF THE PROPERTY
Before you move in, request a detailed tour of the property with the owner. Point out fixtures and fittings that are not in prime working condition to the landlord. It’s wise to write them down and agree on the terms with the landlord so that both parties have agreed on the state of the property at the commencement of the tenancy contract period.
If you are moving to a bigger place, like renting villas in Ajman, it is best to ask the owner about important details of the property, such as mailing codes, alarm systems and passwords.
WRITTEN AGREEMENTS
Always get the terms and conditions of the contract written down to avoid unnecessary issues in the future. Even things like the owner’s promise to get the house repainted should be sealed in writing. Written records provide clarity and reduce the chances of any misunderstandings.
RESPECT THE TENANT’S PRIVACY
Notifying the tenant in advance is a must if you need to access the property. Schedule maintenance work only at times agreed with the tenant.
PROMPT RESPONSE
Issues that need immediate attention, like structural repairs or leakages, should be dealt with swiftly. This gesture will establish a trustworthy relationship between the landlord and the tenant.
RESOLVE MINOR ISSUES
The tenants should try to handle small issues like a loose doorknob or fused light bulb on their own. Letting the landlord know about these smaller issues at the time of any major maintenance work would also save the owner both cost and effort.
FAQS ABOUT MAINTAINING A GOOD LANDLORD AND TENANT RELATIONSHIP
WHAT IS EJARI AND HOW TO REGISTER WITH EJARI ONLINE?
Ejari is a RERA initiative and a government-run program responsible for managing and regulating all tenancy contracts within Dubai. Ejari contracts are official records and act as evidence of the validity of your tenancy contract. Ejari offers an online registration process to facilitate all stakeholders. For more information please visit the official website.
WHERE ARE TENANCY CONTRACTS REGISTERED IN ABU DHABI?
Yes, Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi is the regulatory authority for all tenancy contracts for rental properties in the capital city. Tawtheeq allows property owners and property managers to register online through the Tawtheeq online portal or to visit any of the approved Abu Dhabi Municipality Tawtheeq Centres to complete the registration process. Here’s how to get Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi.
Those searching for a property for rent in Abu Dhabi should be aware of this service.
WHERE ARE TENANCY CONTRACTS IN SHARJAH REGISTERED?
All tenancy contracts in the emirate of Sharjah are attested and registered with Sharjah Municipality. The Rent Regulation Department also regulates leasing and rental disputes and enforces any rulings issued by the court. If you are thinking of renting villas in Sharjah and have any more questions regarding Sharjah’s tenancy laws and tenants’ rights, contact the Rent Regulation Department.
This brings us to the end of our guide on maintaining a positive landlord-tenant relationship. Mutual respect for each other is a key component to help avoid any unnecessary friction between the two parties. If you are looking for a rental property in the capital you should also know about these particular tenancy laws in Abu Dhabi.
Tenancy laws around the UAE slightly differ from one emirate to another. Read our post on the RERA tenancy laws in Dubai to learn about the tenant’s rights when it comes to increasing the rent, evictions and changing the lease terms. If you are already living in a rental property and your tenancy contract is about to expire, there are a couple of things you should know before the tenancy contract renewal in Dubai.
