Understanding Maintenance Responsibilities in Dubai Rentals

Aug 11, 2026

68 min

Aug 11, 2026 09:31

Dubai rental repairs: Who pays for maintenance and damage?

## Key Responsibilities

In Dubai, rental maintenance responsibilities are often a source of confusion. The general rule is that landlords handle major repairs and essential systems, while tenants manage routine upkeep. This division is outlined in Dubai's Law No. 26 of 2007, which regulates landlord-tenant relationships.

## Landlord Obligations

Landlords are typically responsible for structural issues and major building systems, such as central air conditioning, main electrical wiring, and plumbing. These responsibilities ensure the property remains habitable throughout the lease.

## Tenant Duties

Tenants are expected to maintain the property as they would their own, which includes tasks like cleaning air filters and replacing light bulbs. This routine maintenance helps prevent larger issues from developing.

## Contractual Agreements

Tenancy contracts can specify maintenance responsibilities. Often, a "minor maintenance clause" is included, setting a monetary threshold for repairs that tenants must cover. However, landlords cannot transfer all maintenance responsibilities to tenants, especially for essential systems.

## Third-Party Maintenance

Landlords may hire maintenance companies, but this does not absolve them of their legal responsibilities. If a maintenance company fails to perform, tenants can still hold landlords accountable.

## Dispute Prevention

To avoid disputes, clear maintenance clauses should be included in tenancy agreements. Both parties should document the property's condition at the start and end of the lease, report issues promptly, and keep records of all maintenance activities.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents

LinkedIn X Facebook WhatsApp Telegram