Landlord Maintenance Obligations
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Bahraini national legislation, decree-laws, and ministerial orders.
Bahraini National Law
What is this right?
Bahrain's Civil Code places maintenance responsibilities on both landlords and tenants:
- Landlord's duty: The landlord must deliver the property in a habitable condition and maintain structural elements — roof, walls, plumbing, electrical systems, and major fixtures.
- Major repairs: Structural repairs and replacements of essential systems (air conditioning units, water heaters) are the landlord's responsibility unless the lease states otherwise.
- Tenant's duty: The tenant is responsible for minor repairs and daily upkeep — keeping the property clean, replacing light bulbs, and fixing items damaged through their own use.
- Emergency repairs: If a major issue (burst pipe, electrical failure) makes the property uninhabitable and the landlord does not act, the tenant may arrange repairs and deduct the cost from rent (with proper documentation).
When does it apply?
- A major repair is needed — plumbing, electrical, structural, or air conditioning.
- The property has a defect that existed before you moved in.
- Your landlord is refusing to make necessary repairs despite your requests.
What should you do?
- Report maintenance issues to your landlord in writing (email or text) — keep a record.
- Give the landlord a reasonable time to respond (7-14 days for non-emergencies).
- For emergencies, if the landlord is unreachable, arrange the repair yourself and keep all receipts to deduct from rent.
- If the landlord persistently refuses repairs, file a complaint with RERA or take legal action.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not withhold rent as a way to force repairs — this can lead to eviction proceedings.
- Do not make major modifications without the landlord's written permission.
- Do not ignore small issues — minor leaks can become major problems that you may be held responsible for.
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