Maintenance & Habitability
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions.
UAE Federal Law
What is this right?
Your landlord is responsible for keeping the property in a liveable condition:
- Structural repairs: The landlord must maintain the building structure, plumbing, electrical systems, and air conditioning (unless the contract says otherwise).
- Habitability: The property must be fit for its intended use — if it becomes uninhabitable (flooding, structural damage, pest infestation), the landlord must fix it.
- Tenant's responsibility: You are responsible for minor maintenance and keeping the property clean. You must not cause damage beyond normal use.
- Rent reduction: If the landlord fails to make necessary repairs and the property's value is diminished, you may be entitled to a rent reduction.
- Emergency repairs: If urgent repairs are needed and the landlord does not respond, you may arrange them yourself and deduct the cost from rent (but get this in writing first).
When does it apply?
- Your rented property has maintenance issues that affect its livability.
- The landlord refuses to make repairs that are their responsibility.
- The property has become unsafe or uninhabitable.
What should you do?
- Notify your landlord in writing about the maintenance issue, including photos and details.
- Give the landlord a reasonable time to respond (typically 2-4 weeks for non-urgent matters).
- If the landlord ignores your request, file a complaint with the RDSC.
- For emergency issues (gas leaks, electrical hazards), contact civil defense and notify the landlord immediately.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not withhold rent because of maintenance disputes — this gives the landlord grounds to evict you.
- Do not make major repairs yourself and deduct from rent without the landlord's written consent or a court order.
- Do not ignore small issues that could become big problems — report them early.
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