RERA Rental Index: How to Check If Your Rent Increase Is Legal Before Renewal
Before renewing a tenancy contract, both tenants and landlords need to understand the RERA Rental Index. The index provides official guidelines for permissible rent increases in different areas of Dubai. Knowing how the index works helps tenants avoid unlawful rent hikes and assists landlords in staying compliant with regulations.
The RERA Rental Index considers property type, location, and market trends to set fair rental ranges, ensuring transparency for all parties.
What Is Ejari, and How Does It Connect to Rent Increases
In order to know if the increase in rent is legal, you need to know what Ejari is. Ejari is the tenancy contract registration system in Dubai. Each contract registered via Ejari records important information, including rent price, lease term, tenants and landlord details. This is what allows the legal rental increase within the RERA Rental Index. Tenants who do not refer to Ejari are in danger of agreeing to increments beyond what is allowed.
How to Verify a Rent Increase Using Ejari
Checking a rent increase involves multiple steps, all of which rely on accurate Ejari records.
Step 1: Review the RERA Rental Index for Your Area
Tenants should identify the location of their property in the RERA Rental Index and benchmark the offered rent against the permissible bracket. The index ensures that the increases are fair and enforceable by law. All rent that is above the allowable bracket is considered illegal and can be challenged with Ejari records.
Step 2: Compare with Your Ejari Certificate
Your Ejari certificate shows your current rent and lease term. By lining up their present agreement with the Rental Index, tenants can work out whether a landlord’s requested increase is within the legal limits. Ejari is the official registration system for tenancy contracts in Dubai, and it protects the tenants and the landlords during the negotiations.
Step 3: Calculate the Maximum Permitted Increase
The RERA rules provide for a permitted increase in rent in line with how the rent currently paid compares with the average in the market. Ejari information is necessary to carry out this calculation. Properties which are already above the index are subject to very strict limits, and below-average properties can expect modest increases.
Step 4: Take Action if the Rent Increase Is Unlawful
If a proposed increase exceeds the RERA limits, tenants can raise concerns and negotiate based on their Ejari documentation. Ejari serves as proof of the original contract and ensures transparency during any dispute or discussion over rent changes.
Why Following RERA Guidelines Matters
Following RERA guidelines protects tenants from excessive rent and safeguards landlords from fines. Ejari ensures that rental agreements are enforceable, and rent increases are calculated accurately. By referencing the Ejari cancellation process for clarity on official records, tenants and landlords can avoid conflicts, legal penalties, and delays in contract renewal. Ensuring compliance builds trust between parties and makes future negotiations smoother.
Ejari and Legal Compliance Tips
Tenants who are relocating or switching homes should understand how to cancel Ejari, as it will enable them to transfer their utility and update their lease agreements.
If convenience is what you are after, the team at Ejari Support can help you cancel your Ejari online, making the process easier to navigate and ensuring that contracts are legally closed correctly. In the same way, the cancellation of Ejari helps landlords to keep track of their property and avoid disputes with ex-tenants.
Conclusion
It is important to cross-verify your rent with the RERA Rental Index and go through your Ejari certificate before consenting to any hike. So with the Ejari cancellation process and active record keeping, tenancy agreements have not only become legal and transparent but also fair to both tenants and landlords. Keep up to date to protect your interests, avoid disputes with your landlord and ensure that you are meeting your obligations under Dubai law.
Take charge of your tenancy today by obtaining a copy of your Ejari certificate, checking any proposed rent increase against the RERA Rental Index and allowing sufficient time for contract renewal to avoid any last-minute rush or inconvenience with the team at Ejari Support.
FAQs
How do I know if a rent increase is legal?
Check the RERA Rental Index and compare it with your Ejari certificate.
Can Ejari protect tenants from high rent?
Yes, it records official rent and lease details for verification.
Can landlords exceed RERA’s rent limits?
No, any increase beyond the index is unlawful.
How often is the RERA Rental Index updated?
It’s updated periodically to reflect current market trends.
When renting a property in Dubai, one of the key steps in setting up utilities is paying a DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) security deposit. This deposit ensures seamless activation of electricity and water services and serves as a financial guarantee against unpaid bills. Here’s everything tenants need to know about DEWA security deposits, including costs, refund processes, and common queries.
What is a DEWA Security Deposit?
A DEWA security deposit is a refundable amount that tenants must pay when registering for water and electricity services in Dubai. This deposit acts as financial security to cover any outstanding bills or damages before the tenant vacates the property. The deposit remains with DEWA until the tenant formally closes their account and applies for a refund.
How Much is the DEWA Security Deposit?
The amount of the DEWA security deposit varies based on the type of property:
- Apartments: AED 2,000
- Villas: AED 4,000
In addition to the security deposit, DEWA also requires a connection fee, which varies depending on the size of the property and the required services. The connection fee is a non-refundable charge.
How to Pay the DEWA Security Deposit?
You can pay your DEWA security deposit through multiple convenient methods:
✔ Online via DEWA website or DEWA smart app
✔ At DEWA customer service centers
✔ Through bank payment channels (online or ATM)
✔ Via Apple Pay or Samsung Pay
✔ Using credit/debit cards
✔ Through payment kiosks available across Dubai
When Should You Pay the DEWA Security Deposit?
The DEWA security deposit must be paid before activating your electricity and water services. Typically, it should be settled immediately after signing the tenancy contract and before moving into the new property.
How to Get a Refund on Your DEWA Security Deposit?
When vacating the property, tenants can request a refund of their security deposit. Follow these steps for a smooth refund process:
Step 1: Apply for Final Bill Request
Before moving out, submit a final bill request on the DEWA website or mobile app. DEWA will generate a final invoice, including any pending charges.
Step 2: Settle Outstanding Bills
Ensure that all outstanding bills are paid to avoid delays in the refund process.
Step 3: Submit Refund Request
Once your final bill is cleared, request a refund through DEWA’s official website or customer service center. You’ll need to provide:
- Emirates ID copy
- Proof of final bill payment
- IBAN details for bank transfer (if applicable)
Step 4: Receive Your Refund
Refunds are processed via:
- Bank transfer (IBAN required)
- Cheque collection at DEWA offices
- Refund via DEWA-approved payment channels
The refund process typically takes 7-10 working days.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
🚫 Delayed Refunds: Ensure all outstanding dues are cleared before applying.
🚫 Incorrect Bank Details: Double-check IBAN details to prevent refund rejections.
🚫 Missed Final Bill Request: Always apply for a final bill at least a week before vacating.
🚫 Wrong Contact Information: Ensure your contact details are updated to receive refund updates.
What Happens If You Don’t Claim Your Refund?
If a tenant does not claim their DEWA security deposit refund, the amount remains with DEWA. It is advisable to initiate the refund process as soon as possible after vacating the property to avoid complications.
FAQs About DEWA Security Deposits
1. Is the DEWA deposit refundable?
Yes, the deposit is fully refundable once all bills are settled and the final bill request is completed.
2. Can I transfer my DEWA deposit to a new property?
No, you must request a refund for the existing deposit and pay a new security deposit for the new property.
3. How long does the DEWA refund process take?
Refunds typically take 7-10 working days after the final bill is cleared.
4. Can I pay the DEWA security deposit in installments?
No, the security deposit must be paid in full before the electricity and water connection is activated.
5. What happens if I don’t pay my DEWA deposit?
Your utility services will not be activated until the security deposit is successfully paid.
6. Can landlords pay the DEWA deposit instead of tenants?
While some landlords may offer to cover DEWA deposits as part of rental agreements, the responsibility typically lies with the tenant.
7. Does DEWA charge additional fees apart from the deposit?
Yes, apart from the deposit, DEWA charges monthly consumption fees and connection fees, which are non-refundable.
Need Assistance with DEWA Setup?
Let us help you with hassle-free DEWA registration, deposit payments, and refunds. Get expert assistance today!
📞 Call us now or visit: Ejari Services