When a house is rented, we always take a step back before doing anything to the house that might cause damage which could affect us during moving out. At the end of a tenancy, before moving out, many people face issues relating to repainting, deep cleaning, pest control, and deductions from the security deposit. However, Dubai tenancy laws provide clear rules regarding the responsibilities of tenants and landlords.

Law No. 26 of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai

Tenant’s Duty to Maintain the Property
Article 19
  1. The tenant must pay rent on time.
  2. The tenant is responsible for maintaining the property in the same manner as a reasonable person would take care of their own property.
  3. Tenants cannot carry out alterations, repairs, repainting, or modifications without:
  • landlord approval; and
  • required permission from the authorities.
  1. The tenant would still be responsible for minor maintenance or restoration works that are usually carried out by tenants for the ease of their living.
Security Deposit and Deductions
Article 20
  1. The landlord can collect a security deposit at the beginning of the tenancy.
  2. The deposit is taken for the purpose of covering maintenance or damages at the end of the lease.
  3. The landlord is legally obligated to refund the deposit or the remaining balance after the lease expires.
  4. The landlord can make deductions if they relate to actual damage or contractual obligations.
  5. Arbitrary or excessive deductions may be challenged.
Returning the Property at the End of Tenancy
Article 21
  1. The tenant is responsible for returning the property in the same condition in which it was received.
  2. The exceptions are:
  • ordinary wear and tear; and
  • damage beyond the tenant’s control.
  1. Ordinary wear and tear include faded paint, minor marks, or natural deterioration from normal use.
  2. Damage beyond ordinary wear and tear may make the tenant liable for repair or repainting costs.

Are Tenants Liable for Cleaning and Repainting Charges?

  1. A tenant may be liable if the property is left excessively dirty and requires deep cleaning.
  2. A tenant may be responsible for repainting costs if the walls are damaged or unauthorized painting was carried out.
  3. The tenant may also be liable where the tenancy contract specifically requires professional cleaning or repainting before handover.
  4. A tenant may not be liable where only ordinary wear and tear exists or where the landlord seeks excessive or unjustified deductions.

What Can a Tenant Do in Case of Unreasonable Deductions?

  1. A tenant can request photographs, inspection reports, and receipts or invoices.
  2. If the tenant believes that there are unreasonable deductions from the security deposit, they may file a complaint before the Rental Disputes Centre if the deductions are excessive or unfair.

In Dubai, tenants are required to maintain and return the rented property in a reasonable condition, subject to ordinary wear and tear. While landlords may deduct amounts for damages, excessive dirt, or contractual obligations, such deductions should be reasonable and supported by evidence. Understanding the rights and obligations under Dubai tenancy laws can help both landlords and tenants avoid disputes and ensure a smoother move-out process.

We at Ayesha Aldhaheri Advocates & Legal Consultants, we regularly advise landlords and tenants on tenancy disputes, security deposit claims, maintenance obligations, and move-out related issues before the Rental Disputes Centre.