Are Dubai Tenants Responsible for Move-Out Cleaning and Repainting Costs?
If you are preparing to move out of your Dubai apartment and are facing demands from your agency to cover cleaning, pest control, and repainting costs, it is important to understand your legal standing. Under Dubaiâs Rent Law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, tenants are generally expected to return the property in the same condition as when they first received it. While you are responsible for maintaining the unit, the law explicitly exempts "ordinary wear and tear," meaning minor scuffs or natural aging should not be your financial burden to fix.
However, the situation can become complex if your specific tenancy agreement includes clauses that mandate professional cleaning or repainting upon departure. While a landlord is obligated to return your security deposit, they may legally deduct costs if the propertyâs condition significantly exceeds normal usage or if your contract strictly requires these services. If you feel the agency's requested charges are excessive or unjustified, you have the right to demand supporting documentation for the repairs. Should a dispute arise that cannot be resolved amicably, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Disputes Centre in Dubai for a formal assessment.