Sharjah rent increase rule clarified
Staff Report
DUBAI - While there is no fixed rent cap in Sharjah, residents can enjoy a three-year period with no rent increase from the start of their tenancy contract, a Sharjah Municipality official has said.
According to the tenancy law issued in 2007, landlords can increase the rents only after three years from the commencement of the tenancy contract and every two years thereafter.
Ibrahim Al Madloum, Head of the Executive Office of Sharjah Municipality, told Khaleej Times that the 2007 law protects tenants from an annual hike in rents, however, tenants must read the lease "carefully" before signing it.
What if your landlord increases the rent?
In case a landlord increases the rent before the three-year protection period ends, the tenant can approach the Rent Dispute Committee at the municipality.
The tenant can then request for a rent payment form so that rents will be paid to the municipality treasury instead. The tenant can then notify the landlord to collect the rent from the municipality. Tenants must approach the municipality 15 days before the completion of the tenancy contract if the landlord refuses to renew it.
What if your landlord cuts off water or power supply?
The tenant can file a police complaint against landlords who disconnect electricity or water supply. Only the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority has the right to disconnect the supply.
