How to Resolve Rental Disputes in Dubai – A Landlord’s Guide

Dubai is a vibrant city with a thriving rental market. However, with the city’s many rental properties, such as apartments in Dubai for rent, disputes between landlords and tenants are inevitable. 

Knowing how to resolve rental disputes fairly and timely while protecting your rights is essential as a landlord. This guide will discuss the steps to resolve rental disputes in Dubai.

Know Your Rights as a Landlord

Before you can resolve a rental dispute, it is essential to understand your rights as a landlord. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) is the governing body responsible for regulating the rental market. The DLD has set out several rules and regulations that landlords must follow, including:

• Landlords must register their rental properties with the DLD.
• Landlords cannot increase the rent on a property more than once a year.
• Landlords must give tenants at least 90 days’ notice before increasing the rent.
• Landlords cannot evict a tenant without a court order.
• Landlords must maintain the property in good condition.
• Landlords must return the tenant’s security deposit at the end of the tenancy.

By understanding your rights as a landlord, you will be better equipped to handle rental disputes. 

Communication Is Key 

Communicating with your studio apartment tenant is the first step to resolving any rental dispute. Many disputes arise due to the landlord and tenant needing more communication. If your tenant is unhappy with something, listening to their concerns and trying to find a solution together is essential.

If you receive a complaint from your tenant, respond to it promptly. Ignoring the complaint will only make the situation worse. Try to resolve the issue quickly to avoid escalating into a legal dispute.

Consider Mediation

Consider using mediation if you and your tenant cannot resolve the dispute through communication. Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps both parties come to a mutually agreed-upon solution.

The Dubai Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC) provides mediation services for rental disputes in Dubai. The RDSC’s mediators are trained professionals who can help you and your tenant resolve your dispute. Mediation is typically faster and less expensive than court, making it a good option for many landlords.

File a Case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre

If mediation is unsuccessful, you may need to file a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC). The RDSC is a government agency that specializes in resolving rental disputes in Dubai. To file a case with the RDSC, you must provide evidence of the dispute, such as rental agreements, receipts, and correspondence between you and your tenant.

Once your case has been filed, the RDSC will schedule a hearing. You and your tenant must present your case before the RDSC. The RDSC will then make a legally binding ruling.

Eviction

In some cases, eviction may be necessary to resolve a rental dispute. However, landlords cannot evict a tenant without a court order. If you wish to evict your tenant, you must file a case with the RDSC.

It is important to note that the RDSC can only order eviction in certain circumstances, such as non-payment of rent, breach of the rental agreement, or if the property is being used illegally. If the RDSC orders eviction, you must obtain a writ of execution from the court and have it executed by the Dubai Police.

Conclusion

Resolving rental disputes is a complex process that requires careful attention and the right approach. It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that govern rental agreements and disputes in Dubai, and to take into account all factors that may be impacting the dispute. 

With the right approach, disputes concerning your apartment for rent can be successfully resolved and both parties can move forward with a better understanding of their rights and responsibilities. 

If you need a rental agency to manage your apartments in Dubai for rent, contact Vayk! Our experienced team will care for landlords and properties to ensure higher net returns. Call us now to maximise your profit and know your property’s potential!