Questions & Answers
The landlord does not sign the move-out permit upon contract end. What options do I have?
Dear Lawyers,
My rental contract expires in mid-August. I don't owe any money to my landlord; all rent is paid.
They contacted me 110 days before expiration and mentioned a rent increase if I choose to renew. I responded that I do not intend to renew. I plan to move out next week and requested a move-out permit 10 days ago.
The Community Management has already sent four requests to the landlord's company to sign the permit and has called them several times. Each time, the landlord's company claims someone else is responsible.
I have also contacted the landlord's company, encountering the same issue; they cite different responsibilities. Responses to my WhatsApp messages are evasive.
Today, the CM informed me that if the landlord does not sign, I will not be allowed to move out, and the community management cannot intervene.
What options do I have? It seems like I may lose all my furniture to the landlord if I cannot move out.
Dear Questioner,
We can assist you in reviewing the contract between you and the landlord and see if there is a requirement for obtaining NOC from the landlord before moving.
Also, based on that, we can assist you in delivering a legal notice stating that according to the lease contract, you can evict, considering that you have paid all rent up to the eviction date, as well as any other bills.
This is my number for assistance [--------].
Dear Questioner,
According to UAE law, a landlord cannot prevent a tenant from moving out at the end of their tenancy contract, as long as all rent and other financial obligations have been fulfilled.
If the landlord is refusing to sign the move-out permit, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC) in your emirate.
The RDSC will mediate the dispute and can issue a decision to allow you to move out and retrieve your furniture.
We can assist you further. Please contact us on WhatsApp for further details.
Dear Questioner,
First of all, maintain a record of all communication attempts with the landlord's company. This includes dates, times, and content of phone calls, emails, and WhatsApp messages.
File a complaint with the DLD's Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC) explaining the situation. They can mediate with the landlord and ensure your right to move out upon contract expiry, given you've fulfilled your obligations.
Since the CM has already attempted contacting the landlord, request to speak with their supervisor or manager.
Explain the situation and the potential consequences of the landlord's inaction. The CM might have more leverage to pressure the landlord.
If you need further clarification, kindly share your WhatsApp number.
