Are landlords allowed to cut off utilities to force tenants to leave?
In Dubai, landlords are not allowed to cut off utilities to force tenants to vacate a property. Such actions are considered illegal and are classified as "constructive eviction." According to Dubai’s rental laws, a landlord must follow the legal eviction process if they want to remove a tenant, which involves providing proper notice and possibly obtaining a court order. Shutting off essential services like electricity, water, or air conditioning to coerce a tenant into leaving is strictly prohibited and can lead to legal consequences for the landlord.
If a tenant experiences this situation, they have the right to file a complaint with the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC) in Dubai, where the landlord may be penalized for their actions. Tenants are protected under UAE law to ensure they have access to essential services as long as they comply with their rental agreements.
It's important for both landlords and tenants to be aware of their rights and responsibilities to avoid such disputes and ensure a fair and legal process in managing rental agreements.
For more details, tenants and landlords can consult legal professionals or the Dubai Land Department for guidance on handling such situations.