How to build a good tenant-landlord relationship
Building a strong landlord and tenant relationship is vital for a harmonious living experience. In the UAE, where rental properties are common, fostering mutual respect and understanding benefits both parties. Let’s explore how to cultivate such a relationship.
ROLE OF A LANDLORD
Landlords in the UAE must comply with the rules and regulations issued by government agencies such as Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi, the 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.
- Ensure that the property and the surrounding area are safe and secure.
- Ensure that all services are in working condition.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF A TENANT
If you’re a tenant, you must follow the agreed guidelines and rules issued by the landlord. Some 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 rubbish properly.
- Avoid deliberate damage to the property.
- Follow all the terms of the rental agreement.
TIPS FOR A HEALTHY LANDLORD-TENANT RELATIONSHIP
Here are some tips to build a good relationship with tenants as a landlord and vice versa.
CLEAR COMMUNICATION
As a landlord, it’s also crucial to clearly state your expectations to the tenants to reduce the chance of conflict. One of the main aspects of building a healthy landlord-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, try to maintain a positive landlord-tenant relationship to reap some benefits.
A long-term tenancy contract provides landlords with a steady rental income while reducing the risk of vacancies and lost earnings. It also minimises administrative efforts by decreasing the need for frequent tenant searches and paperwork. Additionally, long-term tenants are more likely to maintain the property well, fostering a stronger landlord-tenant relationship with smoother communication and fewer disputes.
A DETAILED TOUR OF THE PROPERTY
Before you move in, request a detailed property tour 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, it is best to ask the owner about important details of the property, such as mailing codes and alarm systems.
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
Another tip to maintain a good relationship with tenants is notifying the tenant in advance 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.
Another tip: Building a good tenant-landlord relationship is easier when renting a property directly from its owner. Explore available options on Bayut.
FAQS
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A LONG-TERM TENANCY CONTRACT?
A long-term tenancy contract offers several benefits for both tenants and landlords, including:
- Ensures a fixed residence and steady rental income.
- Protects tenants from rent hikes and reduces landlord vacancy losses.
- Allows better rental terms for both parties.
- Minimises renewals, moving costs and administrative work.
- Clearly defines rights and obligations.
- Encourages better upkeep by committed tenants.
- Promotes smoother communication and fewer disputes.
WHAT IS EJARI AND HOW TO REGISTER WITH EJARI ONLINE?
Ejari, a RERA initiative, is a government program that oversees and regulates tenancy contracts in Dubai. It serves as an official record, a validating tenancy agreement. Ejari also provides an online registration process for convenience. Visit the official website for more details.
WHERE ARE TENANCY CONTRACTS REGISTERED IN ABU DHABI?
Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi is the regulatory authority for all tenancy contracts for rental properties in the capital city. It allows property owners and managers to register online through the Tawtheeq online portal or to visit a Tawtheeq Centre to complete the registration process. Here’s how to get Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi.
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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 have questions regarding Sharjah’s tenancy laws and tenants’ rights, contact the Rent Regulation Department.
This brings us to the end of our guide on building a healthy landlord-tenant relationship. Mutual respect is key to avoiding unnecessary friction between the two parties. If you are looking for a rental property in the capital, you should also know about these tenancy laws in Abu Dhabi.
Tenancy laws in the UAE differ slightly from one emirate to another. Read our post on the RERA tenancy laws in Dubai to learn about the tenant’s rights, covering rent increases, evictions and changing the lease terms.
If you are already living in a rental property and your tenancy contract is about to expire, here’s what you must know before tenancy contract renewal in Dubai.
Want more tips to enhance your experience living in the UAE? Stay tuned to MyBayut!
