A new law in Sharjah issued by Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi Ruler of Sharjah states that landlords to certify rental contracts within 15 days of issuing them. This law applies to properties rented for residential, commercial, industrial, or professional use in the emirate.
If a landlord doesn’t certify the lease contract in time, the tenant can ask a judge to step in and force the landlord to do so, according to the Sharjah Government Media Office.
Fines for Not Certifying Leases
If a rental contract isn’t certified by the municipality or relevant authorities, the landlord will face an administrative fine. This fine will be in addition to the certification fees that are due. The municipality can also ask a judge to make the landlord certify the lease and pay any outstanding fines or fees.
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The law requires all rental agreements to be in writing or electronic format, based on forms approved by the Executive Council of Sharjah. Without a certified lease, either the landlord or tenant can file a lawsuit with the Rental Disputes Centre.
Landlord’s Responsibilities
- Deliver the rented property in good condition for the tenant to use without any obstacles.
- Perform necessary maintenance unless otherwise agreed with the tenant.
- Avoid making changes to the property that could affect its use without the tenant’s permission.
- Give the tenant approvals needed for interior design work, as long as it doesn’t affect the property’s structure.
- Not disturb the tenant or pressure them to leave the property.
- Return any security deposit to the tenant after the lease ends, unless deductions are made for damages.
Tenant’s Responsibilities
- Pay rent on time as agreed.
- Use the property according to the terms of the lease.
- Not make changes to the property without written permission from the landlord.
- Maintain the property and perform routine maintenance unless agreed otherwise.
- Cover the cost of any services or damages during their rental period.
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Exemptions
This law doesn’t apply to agricultural land, government-granted properties for residential use (unless owned), or employer-provided housing for employees without rent. It also excludes hotel properties, properties within free zones, and contracts specified by Sharjah’s Executive Council.
These changes aim to strengthen the rental process in Sharjah and ensure fairness for both landlords and tenants.
