أسئلة وأجوبة
If my landlord is not responding to my emails and calls, how can I renew the contract?
Hi,
My landlord sent an email mentioning that the rent will be increased for next year; however, the new rent amount was not specified in the email. The email was sent in accordance with the 90-day notice requirement.
When I called the landlord's office, I learned the rent amount, which was more than a 15% increase and not in line with RERA regulations. According to RERA, the rent can only be increased by a maximum of 10%. My tenancy contract will expire on February 4, 2025.
My questions are:
1. If my landlord is not responding to my emails and calls, how can I renew the contract?
2. When can I renew my contract if it’s expiring on February 4, 2025?
3. How many days or months in advance can I renew it?
Kindly advise!
Dear questioner,
We need to start the renewal procedures before the expiry date. There is no strict deadline within which it should be renewed.
If you need further assistance, kindly share your WhatsApp number.
Dear Questioner,
1. While your landlord's lack of response is frustrating, you can still initiate the renewal process. Draft a formal letter to your landlord expressing your intent to renew the lease at the RERA-approved rate. Clearly reference the RERA guidelines and the current rent amount.
2. Typically, you can start the renewal process a few months before your lease expires. However, it's advisable to start early to avoid any last-minute rush. In your case, as your lease expires on February 4th, 2025, you can start the process in the coming months.
3. Start the procedures in January. so, you can be prepared for everything.
Dear Questioner,
Thanks for your inquiry!
Regarding the above, we would like to inform you that:
1) If your landlord is not responding to your emails and calls, you can try reaching out to them through other means such as a physical letter or through a legal representative. If they still do not respond, you can file a complaint with the relevant authorities such as the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) or the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC).
2) You can renew your contract anytime within the last 90 days of your current contract. In your case, you can renew your contract starting from November 6th, 2024.
3) You can renew your contract within the last 90 days of your current contract. In your case, you can renew your contract starting from November 6th, 2024. However, it is recommended to start the renewal process at least 2-3 months before your contract expires to allow for any negotiations or disputes to be resolved.
Kindly do not hesitate to reach out to us directly at [----------] if you face any legal issues.
Greetings,
Hello,
It is not essential for the landlord to specify the exact amount of the increase in the notice itself. Under Dubai’s rental laws, two conditions are required to increase the rent: first, providing the notice at least 90 days before the contract expiration, and second, the increase must be in line with the RERA index guidelines.
If you disagree with the proposed increase, you have the right to continue occupying the property by paying rent as per the current terms and schedule.
The contract will automatically renew under the same conditions until the landlord files a case to request a rent increase, at which point they must prove they are entitled to it according to RERA guidelines.
Let me know if you need further assistance.
Hello,
Send a formal letter or email requesting the renewal of your contract. Clearly state that you wish to renew the tenancy and inquire about the terms.
Be sure to specify the expiration date of your current lease (Feb 4, 2025), and ask for a response within a reasonable time frame (e.g., 7-10 days).
Generally, tenants are encouraged to start the renewal process 3 months before the lease expiration. Some contracts even specify a certain period for providing notice if you wish to renew.
In some regions, if no action is taken, the contract may automatically renew on a month-to-month basis, but that depends on the local tenancy laws and the specific terms of your agreement.
Review the tenancy contract for any renewal clauses and ensure you're within the legal timeframe for notice.
If the landlord is unresponsive or the rent increase is above the legal limit, you can file a complaint with RERA.
Thank you for following up with your questions!
I appreciate the opportunity to assist you further. Please find my responses below:
1. Right to Increase Rent:
If your landlord has given a 90-day advance notice and the proposed rent increase is within the RERA-approved index, he is within his rights to increase the rent.
According to RERA regulations, landlords must inform tenants of any rent changes at least 90 days before the lease expires, and any increase must comply with the RERA Rental Index.
2. Lease Terms During Eviction Notice Period:
Once you receive a 12-month eviction notice, you have the right to stay in the property for that duration or vacate sooner if you wish.
The landlord cannot obligate you to enter into a new contract that extends beyond the eviction notice period.
However, for the time between your current lease's end and the end of the 12-month notice period, you may need to agree on a short-term renewal or continue on a month-to-month basis, subject to mutual agreement.
Any rental terms during this period must align with RERA regulations and any mutually agreed terms.
3. How I Can Support You:
I can provide assistance in the following ways:
- Reviewing Documents: I can review all notices and correspondence from your landlord to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
- Negotiation Support: I can help negotiate interim lease terms that are favorable to you.
- Legal Representation: Should any disputes arise, I can represent you to protect your rights and interests throughout the process.
Please let me know a suitable time for us to discuss your case in more detail and plan the next steps.
Best regards,
Omar Mosaad
Senior Legal Consultant
