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When is the real estate owner responsible for maintenance in a retail shop?

Dear Lawyers,

This question pertains to maintenance work in a retail commercial shop. Typically, in such shops, all maintenance is paid for by the business manager.

Additionally, our specific contract states that "all maintenance work in the retail shop is the responsibility of the tenant." In what cases does the real estate owner get involved?

The business manager experiences recurring maintenance issues every six months.

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London Center for Legal Consultancy Office
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23 Dec 2024, 12:11

Dear Questioner,

Of course, we can assist you with this matter.

Generally, if the contract states that maintenance is the tenant's responsibility, the landlord's involvement is limited to issues that affect the overall safety of the building or relate to essential infrastructure (e.g., main electrical systems or shared plumbing).

At our firm, we specialize in handling such cases and offer comprehensive legal advice to ensure the rights of both tenants and landlords are protected under local laws and signed agreements.

Feel free to contact us for a review of your contract and tailored legal solutions.

Laila Hamza Al Mulla Advocates and Legal Consultants
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23 Dec 2024, 13:46

Dear questioner,

While routine maintenance, such as cleaning, changing light bulbs, and minor repairs to fixtures and fittings, must be done by the tenant, structural repairs—including those to the building's structure, such as the roof, foundation, external walls, and supporting beams, as well as plumbing, electrical, and AC systems—may need to be handled by the building management or landlord.

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

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Dar Al Haqooq Legal Consultancy
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23 Dec 2024, 14:07

Dear Client,

Thanks for your question! I hope you are doing well. I will assist you in this matter.

In a retail commercial shop, if the lease states that "all maintenance work in the retail shop is the responsibility of the tenant," the tenant typically handles recurring maintenance issues.

However, the real estate owner may get involved for major repairs or structural problems affecting safety or functionality.

If you’re facing ongoing maintenance challenges or need clarification on your rights, our legal team can provide expert guidance.

Feel free to contact us for assistance!

Thanks & Regards,

ABDUL WAHIED

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Mohamed Bakheet Advocates & Legal Consultants
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23 Dec 2024, 18:19

The landlord only intervenes in cases related to infrastructure, structural defects, or shared facilities, while the tenant is responsible for daily and regular maintenance according to the contract.

To address recurring issues, it is advisable to review the contract carefully and send a formal notice to the landlord.

For assistance, please contact us by phone or WhatsApp number [----------].

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Al Fahad Legal Consulting
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24 Dec 2024, 04:34

Dear Questioner,

Good morning!

In the case where your contract states that maintenance works are the responsibility of the tenant, the real estate owner typically only gets involved in the following situations:

1. Structural or Major Repairs:

The owner is generally responsible for major repairs related to the building's structure, including the foundation, roof, walls, and plumbing systems. These are not typically covered under the tenant's maintenance obligations.

2. Emergency Situations:

If there is an emergency, such as a severe leak or structural damage that compromises the safety of the building, the owner may need to step in to address the issue.

3. Common Areas Maintenance:

In a multi-unit property, the landlord is usually responsible for maintaining common areas like hallways, elevators, or shared facilities. However, if the lease agreement specifies that the tenant is responsible for certain aspects, this would vary.

Given that the business manager is handling recurring maintenance, if these are not structural or emergency repairs, it's typically within the scope of their responsibility unless otherwise stipulated in the lease.

If there's any dispute or confusion, reviewing the terms of the contract or seeking legal advice may be beneficial.

For further assistance, feel free to contact us.

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