The new landlord is requesting changes and a new deposit. What to do?

Dear Questioner,

Thank you for reaching out to me with your inquiry regarding the renewal of your lease agreement and the change of landlord.

I understand your situation, and it's indeed concerning to be faced with unexpected changes in your tenancy arrangement.

It appears that there are several issues that need to be addressed, including the validity of the existing lease agreement, the transfer of security deposit, and the modification of terms and conditions by the new landlord.

Firstly, regarding the renewal of the lease agreement just before its expiry and the subsequent sale of the property by the previous landlord without your knowledge, it's important to assess the legal implications of these actions.

Typically, in Dubai, a lease agreement is binding on both parties, including any successors in interest, unless otherwise specified.

However, the sale of the property may trigger certain rights and obligations under the law, which we need to examine further.

Secondly, regarding the request from the new landlord to sign a new contract and modify the terms and conditions, it's crucial to ensure that any changes proposed are in compliance with the relevant laws and regulations governing tenancy agreements in Dubai.

Additionally, the issue of the security deposit needs to be addressed, as it represents a significant financial concern for tenants.

To provide you with comprehensive legal guidance and assistance in resolving these matters, I recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss your specific situation in detail.

During our consultation, we can review the terms of the existing lease agreement, assess the implications of the property sale, and explore available options to protect your rights and interests as a tenant.

Please feel free to reach out to me via WhatsApp or phone to schedule a consultation or if you have any further questions or concerns.

I am here to assist you every step of the way and ensure that your legal rights are safeguarded.

Dear Client,

Review the original tenancy contract and UAE rental laws to assess your rights.

New ownership doesn't typically invalidate existing leases.

Consult with us before signing a new contract or agreeing to changes. Contact the Rental Disputes Center for assistance in resolving the situation.

Thanks and Regards,

Abdul Wahied

Dear Questioner,

Please note that if a leased premises is sold without the knowledge of the tenant, the tenant retains the right to continue under the existing tenancy contract.

The new owner is not permitted to alter the terms and conditions until the contract's expiration unless there is a specific agreement to the contrary within the contract terms.

Should you need additional assistance on this matter, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. Our initial consultation is provided free of charge.

Best regards,

Adv. Abdul Haq,

Legal Consultant

Maryam Alyassi Advocates and Legal Consultants

Dear questioner,

If the new landlord collected and returned your old security cheques with the previous landlord, then you can issue new security cheques in favor of the new landlord.

For changing terms and conditions, he should send you a 90-day prior notification.

If you need further clarification, kindly share your WhatsApp number.

Hi,

Yes, the contract is still valid with the new landlord. When a property is sold, the new owner automatically assumes all rights and obligations of the previous owner, including the tenancy contract.

The new landlord cannot change the terms and conditions of the contract without your consent.

The contract is a legally binding agreement between you and the previous landlord, and the new landlord cannot unilaterally change the terms without your agreement.

The new landlord cannot ask for a new security deposit. The security deposit is held by the previous landlord and should be returned to you at the end of the tenancy.

If the previous landlord is not returning the security deposit, you can file a complaint with the relevant authorities.

The new landlord cannot ask for a new contract to be signed. The existing contract is still valid and the new landlord cannot ask you to sign a new one.

However, if both parties agree to make changes to the contract, a new addendum can be signed to reflect the changes.

But this should be done with the consent of both parties. It is important to note that any changes to the contract should be made in writing and signed by both parties.

Dear Questioner,

Even though he is the new landlord by selling the property, he is getting into the position of the previous landlord.

If he wants to change any terms and conditions, he wants to notify you 90 days before the expiry of the tenancy contract.

The security deposit has to be adjusted between the landlords themselves. You don't have any obligation to pay him the security deposit again.

The sale of the property will not affect the tenant's right to stay and continue the lease period.

If you need further clarification, we will arrange a consultation session.

Share your WhatsApp number for further discussion.

Hi,

As per your inquiry, your initial agreement (tenancy contract) is valid even if the property was sold to a new owner.

It is the responsibility of the old owner to hand over the tenancy agreement, cheques, and security deposit.

Your initial agreement, if registered through the land department, is valid till its expiry date.

For further assistance, you can contact us.