My landlord increased my rent more than RERA Index and refused my offer and deposit. What to do?

Given the circumstances, it's not advisable to wait for a long. If the contract didn't get renewed you do not have any authority to continue to stay there.

So, it's your responsibility to get the contract renewed. Otherwise, the landlord files immediate eviction after serving 30 days' notice.

So, before he files something, it's better to have your contract renewed by filing a suit with RDC for the contract renewal.

We will let you know the procedures in detail. Kindly share your WhatsApp number to discuss this further.

Dear questioner

We need to file a case against the landlord if he is sending you an eviction notice or notifications to challenge it and RDC will decide in your favor.

This is because as per the law, the landlord has no right to increase which is beyond the RERA index, however, we need to prepared as well and produce it in a good manner to make the decision in our favor.

If you need our assistance in your matter kindly share your Whatsapp number.

Based on the facts you’ve provided, it seems that you have a strong legal basis to contest the landlord's actions.

You should not be overly concerned, but you should also remain proactive in protecting your rights.

The landlord’s threats of daily fines and claims of illegal stay are likely intended to pressure you, but they are unlikely to hold up in court, especially if you’ve made a reasonable attempt to negotiate.

Your best course of action is to continue to stand by the RERA index and the lawful rent increase limit of 5%.

If the landlord rejects your reasonable offer, they could pursue legal action, but the court will likely favor your position, especially if you’ve made a good-faith attempt to settle the matter.

Keep communication lines open, document everything, and consider filing a complaint with RERA or the Rental Dispute Center if the situation escalates.

For further assistance, kindly share your WhatsApp number

Dear Questioner,

Thanks for your inquiry.

According to UAE law, landlords are allowed to increase rent by a maximum of 5% if the current rent is below the average market rent for similar properties in the same area.

If the landlord wants to increase the rent by more than 5%, they must provide evidence that the current rent is significantly lower than the average market rent.

In your case, it seems that the landlord has not provided any evidence to justify the 15% rent increase. Therefore, you have the right to negotiate and request a rent increase based on the RERA index. The landlord cannot force you to pay the full amount without providing any evidence.

If the landlord continues to demand full payment and threatens to charge you for staying illegally, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC). The RDSC will mediate between you and the landlord and try to reach a fair resolution.

In the meantime, you can continue to pay the rent based on the RERA index and keep a record of all communication with the landlord.

It is important to note that you cannot be charged for staying illegally as long as you are paying the rent according to the RERA index.

If the landlord decides to pursue a case against you, you can defend yourself by presenting evidence of the RERA index and your attempts to negotiate with the landlord.

Kindly do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email for further guidance.

Greetings

We can help you send a legal notice to the owner explaining all the points and to preserve your rights in the event that he registers a lawsuit against you.

So contact us on the phone number.

So we can help you

Don't worry, your situation is good.

You have offered the rent according to the legal increase, and if he files a lawsuit to evict you from the apartment, you can request a new contract from the court.

To obtain free legal advice that includes all the details.

Wafaa Al Hosani Advocates and Legal Consultations

Good morning, and thank you for reaching out.

I understand the situation you're facing, and it’s essential to address this properly to protect your rights.

Under Dubai rental laws, the landlord must comply with the RERA Rental Index guidelines for rent increases.

Since your offer was consistent with these guidelines and even accepted by the judge, you have strong grounds to challenge the landlord’s demands.

Here’s what you need to consider:

Legality of Rent Increase: If the landlord continues to insist on a higher rent that exceeds the RERA-approved increase, you may file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) to enforce the correct rental amount.

Staying “Illegally”: While your lease expires, the law protects tenants from being charged unreasonable penalties.

If the landlord files a case, you can present your compliance with RERA’s guidelines and the judge’s acceptance of your deposit as your defense.

Next Steps: You can either continue negotiating or wait for the landlord to take legal action. However, it might be prudent to prepare a case to protect your interests and avoid paying excessive penalties.

I’d be happy to discuss your case in more detail and assist you with filing a complaint if necessary. Please feel free to reach out to me via WhatsApp or phone to discuss your options further and book a consultation.

Best regards,

Suhail Rana