Normal Wear and Tear vs Damage in a UAE Rental
Normal wear and tear is the gradual, expected ageing of a home from ordinary living, and a landlord cannot deduct it from your deposit. Damage is harm beyond that, caused by accident, neglect or misuse, and that is the tenant’s responsibility. Faded paint and light scuffs are wear. Holes in the wall, burns, stains and broken fittings are damage. If the two sides disagree, the Rental Dispute Center decides.
- Wear and tear is not deductible
- Damage is the tenant’s responsibility
- Photos at move-in settle most disputes
- The RDC decides if you cannot agree
Where the line sits
| Normal wear and tear | Damage |
|---|---|
| Faded or lightly marked paint | Holes, deep scratches, crayon or burns |
| Worn carpet in walkways | Stains, tears or pet damage to carpet |
| Loose hinges or minor wear | Broken doors, fittings or appliances |
| Small nail holes from normal use | Large holes or unapproved alterations |
How to protect your deposit
The single best protection is dated photos of the whole home on the day you move in, kept with the contract. At move-out, ordinary wear should not be charged, and you can point to the move-in record if a landlord tries. Fair deductions cover genuine damage and unpaid bills, not the passage of time.
If you disagree
If a landlord withholds the deposit for what is really wear and tear, raise it in writing with your photos. If it is not resolved, the Rental Dispute Center weighs the evidence and can order the deposit returned. A clear move-in record is what wins these cases.
Prefer to do it yourself?
See what is fair with the Security Deposit Deduction Checker, and read the security deposit rules.
Frequently asked questions
Can a landlord charge me for wear and tear?
No. Normal wear and tear from ordinary living cannot be deducted from your deposit.
What counts as damage?
Harm beyond ordinary use, such as holes, stains, burns or broken fittings, caused by accident, neglect or misuse.
How do I prove it was wear and tear?
Dated photos of the home at move-in, kept with your contract, are the strongest evidence.
What if we disagree at move-out?
Raise it in writing with your photos, and if needed file at the Rental Dispute Center, which weighs the evidence.
Official reference: Dubai Land Department.
This is general information, not legal advice.
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