Can my Dubai landlord charge me for normal wear and tear?
My Dubai landlord is trying to deduct AED 4,500 from my deposit for repainting and minor scuffs on the walls after 3 years of living there. Can he legally charge me for normal wear and tear?
1 Answer
6 Jul 2026
What Is Normal Wear and Tear in Dubai?
Normal wear and tear refers to the natural, expected deterioration of a property over time from ordinary residential use. In Dubai, examples include minor scuffs on walls from furniture, small nail holes from pictures, faded paint from sun exposure, and minor carpet wear in high-traffic areas. These are not the tenant's responsibility to repair or pay for. Damage caused by negligence, accidents, or deliberate action is different and is the tenant's responsibility.
Landlord Rights to Deduct for Wear and Tear in Dubai
Under UAE tenancy law, a landlord cannot legitimately deduct from a security deposit for normal wear and tear. Deductions are only valid for actual damage beyond what is expected from ordinary residential use, or for costs specifically outlined in the tenancy contract. Repainting a property that has been lived in for 3 years without damage would generally be considered normal wear and tear and should not be charged to the tenant.
What to Do If Your Landlord Makes Unfair Deductions
Dispute the deductions in writing citing that the items are normal wear and tear and not tenant damage. If your landlord refuses to release the deposit, file a dispute with the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre through RERA. Document your position with move-in and move-out photos. The burden of proof for damage deductions generally rests with the landlord.
This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. UAE law on specific deductions is interpreted case by case. For your specific situation consult a legal professional or RERA.
Pre-Move-Out Repairs in Dubai
If you want to address any genuine damage before handover, post your job on BidMyJob.ae and get quotes from painters and handymen in your area.
— BidMyJob Advice Team | support@bidmyjob.ae
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as damage vs wear and tear in a Dubai rental?+
Wear and tear includes minor scuffs, small nail holes, faded paint, and normal carpet compression from 3 or more years of occupancy. Damage includes large holes in walls, broken fixtures, stained carpets, cigarette burns, or any deterioration beyond what is expected from ordinary careful use. The longer the tenancy, the more wear is considered normal.
How long should paint last before repainting is normal wear and tear in Dubai?+
Generally, paint that has lasted 3 to 5 years without tenant-caused damage would be considered normal wear and tear in Dubai. Landlords claiming for repainting after long tenancies are often overstepping, particularly where the paint simply looks dated or has minor scuffs from normal use.
What evidence do I need to dispute a deposit deduction in Dubai?+
Move-in inspection reports and photos are your most important evidence showing the property condition when you took possession. Move-out photos showing the condition you left the property in are equally important. Written communication with your landlord about the deductions is also useful. File all of this with the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre when raising a dispute.