Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Sharjah

About Landlord & Tenant Law in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Law in Sharjah, just like the rest of the UAE, is subject to a federal legal system that is characterized by civil law influences from Roman, Egyptian, French, and Islamic law. In the realm of Landlord & Tenant issues, rules and regulations govern various aspects of rental agreements in order to maintain fairness and harmony between the two parties. This includes areas such as rent increases, termination of lease, and the rights and responsibilities of both parties in different situations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging in a legal dispute can be a complicated process, especially if you're not familiar with Sharjah's rules and laws. Situations like legal disputes with your landlord or tenant, eviction cases, drafting rental contracts, and legal advice on rights and obligations, all require the assistance of an experienced lawyer. These situations also require an understanding of the latest local laws and court procedures, which can best be provided by lawyers who are well-versed in Sharjah's legal system.

Local Laws Overview

The key terms of Sharjah's Landlord & Tenant laws are often specific to the Emirate. Some of these include the permitted maximum rent increase, which is legislated by the Sharjah Municipality and varies based on the inflation rate and market conditions. Landlords also have the right to terminate leases under specific circumstances, like if the tenant uses the property for illegal activities or fails to pay rent after a grace period. On the other hand, tenants also have rights like claiming compensation if the landlord fails to carry out necessary repairs or maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord increase the rent arbitrarily?

No, they cannot. Sharjah law has set guidelines for rent increases that should be adhered to. The landlord has to give at least 90 days notice period before increasing the rent.

After how long can a landlord increase the rent?

As per Sharjah law, the landlord can increase the rent after three years of the lease agreement. The increase should also not exceed 20% of the existing rent.

Can a tenant be evicted without reason?

A landlord cannot evict a tenant without a substantial reason. Valid reasons for eviction include the tenant failing to pay rent, damaging the property, or using the property for illegal activities. Even in those cases, the landlord needs to follow a set legal process.

Does a tenant need to pay for repairs and maintenance?

It depends on the terms of the lease agreement. Generally, minor repairs and maintenance are the tenant's responsibility while major repairs are handled by the landlord.

Can the landlord visit the property indiscriminately?

Above all other legalities, privacy rights must be respected. The landlord should provide notice to tenants about intended visits; and they should primarily be for the purpose of repairs, inspections, or showing the property to prospective buyers or tenants.

Additional Resources

You may find it beneficial to refer to official government websites such as the Sharjah Municipality or consult with local community organisations for more information. The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) also provides valuable advice and updates on laws related to rental issues in Sharjah.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in Landlord & Tenant matters, consider seeking advice from a legal expert familiar with Sharjah's laws. They can provide guidance tailored to your unique situation, and assist you in understanding and enforcing your rights and obligations under Sharjah's law. Also, understand that each case is unique and that this guide acts as a preliminary source of information and should not replace legal advice.