Generally, landlords and tenants can have disagreements. A well-drafted tenancy contract, however, contains resolution methods for disputes, including mediation, arbitration, or filing a suit with the local courts. Disagreements between landlords and tenants are best resolved with legal counsel or representation from a rental property dispute lawyer in Dubai. Before a lawsuit is filed, it is best to try out different conflict resolution methods, since settling a dispute involving the courts can be exhaustive in terms of time and money.

What are Rental Disputes?

A rental dispute is a form of disagreement between a landlord and a tenant. Here are some common issues that can lead to a dispute:

• Unpaid rent
• Unreasonable rent increases
• Unlawful eviction notices
• Concerns about property maintenance—for instance, the landlord has not fixed broken appliances
• Security deposit disputes

Note: Consult with an attorney!

Arbitration

When concerned parties are not able to resolve their own issues regarding the rent or any other matter, a neutral party may be sought out in order to help with negotiating a settlement. Arbitrators are utilized when parties submit rental disputes for arbitration. Arbitrators can decide resolutions for parties that seem fair for all those involved and parties are bound to the decision of the third parties. Of course, it is possible to have a non-binding arbitration. The method of arbitration is like mediation but more formal.  There’s a fee involved and the expertise of an arbitration lawyers in Dubai UAE. 

You may want to know: How to Resolve a Tenancy Dispute Case in Dubai

Mediation

Unlike arbitration, a mediation undertaken for a rental dispute isn’t binding. A mediator is still a third or neutral party that helps in coming to a resolution or decision. Arbitration and mediation are both fast and affordable methods in resolving conflicts in comparison to litigating matters in court. 

Filing a case

Local courts can hear civil cases. Each jurisdiction in the UAE has its own set of rules and regulations regarding property disputes. The parties that are involved in a lawsuit are to have representation. A judge will be the one to decide a case and provide judgment. 

Read More about- A Property Dispute in Dubai For Breach of Contract

Before taking any action, you should first consult with property or rental dispute attorney in UAE whenever there is an issue that can’t be resolved between a landlord and a tenant. With a landlord and tenant situation, a landlord will be employing the expertise of a property attorney in preparing a detainer action or in helping prepare or negotiate a lease. In general, a commercial lease is prepared by an attorney. 

However, a residential lease may have been prepared by a management company, the realtor, or the landlord. A tenant would have to hire an attorney in order to uncover his or her legal rights whenever a landlord refuses in making major repairs or committed any act that is considered unlawful such as sexual harassment and discrimination. The same goes if the tenant was sued for unlawful detainer action. A tenant is advised to consult with lawyers prior to signing any lease agreement. 

What are Rental Disputes?

A rental dispute is a form of disagreement between a landlord and a tenant. Here are some common issues that can lead to a dispute:

• Unpaid rent
• Unreasonable rent increases
• Unlawful eviction notices
• Concerns about property maintenance—for instance, the landlord has not fixed broken appliances
• Security deposit disputes

You may want to know : Role of the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre in the Emirate of Dubai

Common Rental Disputes Handled by Lawyers

Rental dispute Lawyers in Dubai handle a wide array of issues that might arise between the tenant and the landlord.

The most common rental disputes include:

1. Increase in Rent: If the landlord tries to increase the rent beyond the permitted rates approved by the Dubai Land Department, then a dispute may arise. The tenant may seek legal help to challenge exorbitant rent increases.
2. Security Deposit Refund: Disputes over the return of security deposits are common, especially because claims are made for damages and unsettled utility bills. The landlord may withhold deposits, while the tenant may claim a full refund.
3. Maintenance and Repairs: A tenant will seek legal help if the landlord does not perform the requisite maintenance or repairs on time, making living conditions difficult.
4. Early Termination of Contracts: Parties may seek legal counsel if either party wants to terminate a tenancy contract before the expiry date, due to personal reasons or breach of the contract.
5. Landlord Harassment: Sometimes, tenants are harassed, threatened, or unduly pressured by landlords. In this context, they need help from a lawyer specializing in rental disputes in Dubai to protect their rights and ensure a secure living environment.
6. Eviction Processes: At times, both landlords and tenants may need legal representation to go about the eviction process lawfully and through the set procedures.

Read more process of Termination of tenancy contacts by tenants

Reasons to Hire a Rental Dispute Lawyer in Dubai

Even though some disputes might be settled amicably, here are a few reasons you might want to have a rental dispute lawyer by your side:

1. Legal Expertise: Lawyers dealing with rental disputes in Dubai understand all the implications set forth by the laws of the UAE with respect to tenant-landlord cases. They can advise you on the rights and obligations under the law and specifically with your lease agreement.
2. Negotiation and Mediation Skills: Dubai rental dispute lawyers can represent you in negotiations with the other party. They can also represent you effectively in mediation sessions at the Rental Dispute Center, a specialized government entity established to resolve rental conflicts through amicable settlements.
3. Representation in Court: If negotiation or mediation fails, a rental dispute lawyer can represent the litigant in court. The lawyer can present the case and evidence powerfully, thereby protecting their interests, based on knowledge of the law and precedents.
4. Clarity and Direction: The legal system can often be overwhelming, but an attorney can bring clarity and provide guidance so that the client understands their options and the resultant consequences of each decision they may make during the dispute resolution process.
5. Objective Perspective: Rental disputes can be highly emotional. A lawyer can offer an objective perspective, helping clients sift through emotions that blind them from legal facts, thus making rational choices in their best interest.

Find more – Reasons for Real Estate Litigation in UAE

Choosing the Best Rental Dispute Services in Dubai

It is only through a trustworthy and well-experienced Dubai rental dispute lawyer that you will be able to resolve a rental dispute effectively. Some of the factors to consider when choosing the best rental dispute services in Dubai include:

• Experience: Experienced lawyers or firms in handling Dubai rental disputes have a proven track record of success.
• Specialization: Engage lawyers and firms that specialize in rental disputes and landlord-tenant laws to ensure that the needed expertise is indeed brought to the table.
• Reputation: Inquire through reviews, testimonies, and recommendations from trusted sources about the lawyer or the firm’s reputation.
• Communication: Ensure that you are comfortable and can clearly communicate your concerns and expectations with the lawyer.

Conclusion

Any kind of rental dispute is stressful. The best rental dispute services in Dubai, as provided by a Dubai rental dispute lawyer, will assist with legal issues and protect your interests. Do not delay in seeking legal advice, assuring you of a just and speedy resolution.

Rental laws in the UAE can be very complicated. A landlord and tenant dispute have to be taken very seriously as the local authorities in the country don’t take disagreements lightly. Any violation of Sharia laws can result in criminal and civil fines and penalties. A landlord and a tenant both need to undergo research on local laws in order to ensure that they’re both familiar with what they are going into and also to avoid hefty legal expenses. 

Get Expert Legal Assistance for your Rental Disputes in Dubai

If there has been a rental disagreement in Dubai, a team of rental dispute lawyers in Dubai can provide you with strong representation. We understand the complexity of the UAE’s rental laws and will guide you at every step, from understanding your rights to negotiating a settlement or even representing you at the RDC.

Contact HHS Lawyers in Dubai today for a consultation, and let us guide you to a smooth resolution for your rental dispute.