The Mandatory Move-In Inspection Report: Activating Your 2026 Ejari
Does applying for Ejari need the Move-In Inspection Report digitally in 2026? Although the Ejari certificate can be issued after the lease has been signed, the move-in inspection has now been made compulsory for tenants to complete to activate their tenancy profile in the Dubai REST app.
In 2026, DLD necessitates that this digital report be submitted within the tenant’s first week of occupancy to protect the tenant’s security deposit and to provide a documented baseline for the conditions of the property.
Why a Move-In Inspection is Critical for 2026 Tenancies
The team at Ejari has observed that many disputes arise because of undocumented pre-existing damage. By performing a thorough move-in inspection, you are not just checking for leaks; you are creating a legally recognised digital condition report that is stored in the RERA ecosystem. This report is the only evidence the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC) will accept if a landlord claims damages at the end of the year.
Key Benefits of the Digital Report
- Security Deposit Protection: A move-in inspection that has been verified means you will not be responsible for any dings, scratches, or broken appliances that existed before you moved in.
- Dispute Prevention: When both parties sign off on a digital condition report at the beginning, it removes 90% of the friction at move-out.
- RERA Inspection App Integration: Using the official RERA inspection app features allows for instant timestamping of all observations.
- Maintenance Accountability: The report is a formal demand to the landlord to rectify any issues found during the inspection.
How to Upload Ejari Move-In Photos to the DLD Portal
Uploading Ejari move-in photos is a seamless process through the Dubai REST app, but it must be done accurately to be legally binding. The team at Ejari recommends taking clear, wide-angle shots of every room, followed by close-ups of any specific defects.
Steps for a Successful Digital Upload
- Access the Tenancy File: Sign in to the Dubai REST App and select your active Ejari contract.
- Open the Inspection Module: Select “New Move-In Report” to start the RERA inspection app for display.
- Capture High-Quality Images: Capture Ejari move-in photos using the app so they can be geotagged and timestamped by the DLD system.
- Complete the Tenant Checklist: Fill out the standardised tenant checklist, noting the condition of AC units, plumbing, and electrical sockets.
- Submit for Landlord Approval: When you submit your application, your landlord is notified to look it over and sign it digitally.
What Happens if There is No Move-In Inspection Report?
If your landlord doesn’t have a move-in inspection on file when your rental agreement ends, the law often holds that the property was surrendered in “spotless” condition. This means the tenant is in a very disadvantaged position attempting to get their deposit back, as the landlord can state that the occupant caused all wear and tear.
Submitting a case for a deposit refund is, therefore, much harder without a digital condition report. The RDSC is based on comparative evidence; if you cannot demonstrate the condition of the property at the start, you cannot argue what it was at the end.
Navigating the RERA Inspection App and Tenant Checklist
The team at Ejari emphasises that the tenant checklist is your most powerful tool during the first week of your lease. It covers everything from the functionality of kitchen appliances to the cleanliness of the balcony. By spending thirty minutes on a detailed move-in inspection, you save yourself weeks of potential legal headaches later.
In 2026, the RERA inspection app also allow you to link specific maintenance requests to the report. If the landlord agrees to fix a broken window noted in the digital condition report, the system tracks the progress, ensuring your home is brought up to the promised standard.
Conclusion
The move-in inspection is no longer just a recommendation; it is a fundamental part of a modern Dubai tenancy. By documenting your home through Ejari move-in photos and a verified digital condition report, you protect your financial interests and ensure a transparent relationship with your landlord.
The team at Ejari is here to guide you through every digital step. We ensure that your move-in inspection is filed correctly so that your focus can remain on enjoying your new home.
FAQs
Is the move-in inspection required for old buildings?
Yes, the move-in inspection is even more important for older homes where there is usually wear and tear that existed before and needs to be documented.
Can the landlord refuse to sign the digital condition report?
If a landlord refuses to sign without a valid reason, the team at Ejari can help you flag the report to RERA as a “unilateral submission” to protect your record.
Does the tenant checklist include the garden or parking?
Absolutely. Your move-in inspection should cover every part of the property listed on your Ejari, including external areas and parking bays.
How many Ejari move-in photos can I upload?
The RERA inspection app allows for a comprehensive gallery, but the team at Ejari suggests focusing on 15–20 high-quality photos that cover all major areas and defects.