Explainer: Sharjah's new landlord-tenant laws
Landlords are now obligated to ratify rental contracts within 15 days of issuance. Failure to comply can result in legal penalties.
Sharjah: The Emirate of Sharjah, a dynamic part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has witnessed significant growth in recent years. This growth has naturally led to increased demand for housing, both residential and commercial.
To regulate the landlord-tenant relationship and ensure fair practices, Sharjah has implemented specific legal frameworks. The laws aim to ensure fair practices and protect the interests of both parties.
Understanding and adhering to these laws is essential for maintaining a harmonious rental relationship in Sharjah
Contract ratification and certification
One of the most notable aspects of Sharjah's landlord-tenant laws is the emphasis on contract ratification and certification.
As per a new leasing law issued by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah and Member of the Supreme Council, the landlords are obligated to ratify rental contracts within 15 days of issuance, failing which the tenant can seek legal recourse.
Additionally, the law mandates the certification of lease contracts by the municipality or authorized authorities. This ensures the validity of the contract and provides a record for both parties.
Maintenance obligations
Sharjah's laws place specific maintenance obligations on landlords. They are responsible for carrying out necessary maintenance unless otherwise agreed upon in the lease contract. Additionally, landlords are prohibited from making changes to the rented property without written permission from the tenant. This ensures that the property remains in a habitable condition throughout the lease term.
Tenant rights
Sharjah's laws provide tenants with several important rights. These include:
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Peaceful Tenancy: Tenants have the right to a peaceful tenancy, free from disturbances caused by the landlord or others.
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Full Use of Property: Tenants are entitled to enjoy the full use of the rented property without undue interference.
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Protection from Unlawful Eviction: Tenants are protected from unlawful eviction, and any eviction must adhere to the prescribed legal procedures.
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Timely Maintenance: Tenants have the right to timely maintenance of the rented property.
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Dispute Resolution: Tenants have access to legal remedies and dispute resolution mechanisms to address any issues that may arise.
Exemptions
While the laws apply to most rental relationships in Sharjah, there are certain exemptions. These include:
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Agricultural Lands: The laws do not apply to agricultural lands.
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Government-Granted Properties: Properties granted by the Emirate Government for residential purposes are exempt.
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Employer-Provided Housing: Housing provided by employers to their employees is exempt.
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Hotel Properties: Properties belonging to hotel or tourist facilities rented to their guests are exempt.
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Free Zone Properties: Properties located within the free zones in Sharjah are exempt.
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Properties Allocated by Executive Council Decisions: Properties allocated by decisions issued by the Executive
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Council of Sharjah are exempt.
Understanding and adhering to these laws is essential for maintaining a harmonious rental relationship in Sharjah.