Rent Dispute
Question: A reader from Dubai asks: I had been looking for a flat for more than two months before finding one that was perfect for my family. I handed over a cheque for the deposit to the real estate agent after we both agreed on the rent. They were supposed to get back to me in two days’ time with the tenancy contract. After one week calling the agent I got a reply that the real estate manager had changed his mind. Instead of the agreed rental amount he wants to increase the rent. Accordingly I asked for a meeting with the real estate manager. Now it has been more than two weeks and the real estate agent manager does not want to meet me and refuses to sign the contract. What is my right as a client? I feel something is not right with the real estate agent.
Answer: I advise the questioner to confirm whether the real estate agent is a licensed company or not. This can be ascertained by checking its trade licence or by approaching the concerned licensing authority. The questioner should not be impressed by merely the sign on its office door or its advertisements. If the questioner finds out that such an agent is not licensed by law, he is advised to lodge a fraud complaint before the police or the Public Prosecution. However, if such an agent is licensed to practise such real estate business, then — if the questioner has proof of payment of the deposit — he is advised to file a case before Dubai Municipality’s Rent Committee to claim his rights.
Ask the Law questions are answered by Advocate Mohammad Al Shaiba of Al Shaiba Advocates and Legal Consultants.
