A Landlord's checklist for a smooth end-of-year tenant handover

Property advice | 01.12.2025 | Benham and Reeves UAE

As we are approaching the end of year, a seamless end-of-tenancy handover should become one of the most important responsibilities for landlords in Dubai. The reason being, a well-planned tenancy handover is a key to safeguarding the property value and to make sure that you have a smooth compliance with local regulations. But in most cases, many landlords are actually unaware about the whole process.

Hence we bring you a detailed, data-backed guide to help you ensure and execute an effortless landlord-tenant handover checklist and know why it matters more than ever.

Why a structured handover matters

Dubai’s rental issues are quite popular and easygoing, but even though the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) has tight tenancy regulations, landlords and tenants still clash at handover. Disputes over security deposit deductions or undetected damage are a common cause. Hence, by following a proven checklist, you mitigate risk and protect your financial interests.

Key steps to follow in your end-of-year tenant handover checklist:

1. Review legal and contractual obligations

• Verify that your tenancy agreement aligns with Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 and Law No. 33 of 2008.
• Ensure that the contract is registered with Ejari, the mandatory legal registration system in Dubai.
• Dubai law requires landlords to give tenants at least 90 days written notice before making any changes to the contract related to rent increases or amendments to terms.

2. Document and inspect the whole property

• Conduct a joint final inspection with your tenant
• Use a comprehensive checklist: check walls, paint, electrical outlets, plumbing, HVAC, and more.
• Take date-stamped photos or videos of their property to serve as proof of condition.

3. Verify fixtures, fittings and inventory

• It's advisable to use an inventory list, especially if the property is furnished.
• Confirm that all items, including doors, windows, appliances etc. are all in proper working condition
• Both parties should sign off on the inventory and its condition.

4. Clear utilities and admin matters

• Settle final utility bills; DEWA (electricity/water, gas and any kind of service charges)
• Collect all the featured facilities, including keys, remotes, and access cards and make sure everything is returned
• Create and prepare a handover report summarising the inspection, signed by both parties

5. Security deposit settlement

• Use your documented inspection and inventory to justify any deductions
• Return the deposit or remaining balance promptly, clearly communicating any deductions with proof

6. Complete formalities

• With a signed agreement or acceptance certificate, formalise the handover procedure, signed by both the parties in order to confirm the space’s final condition.
• Maintain copies of all documents for your own records, inspection report, photos and the final report; all must be checked.

The latest regulatory insights (2025)

• According to RERA tenancy laws, any deductions from security deposits must be backed up by photographic evidence and proper validations, not random charges.
• The Dubai Rent Disputes Centre (RDC) continues to hear cases around deposit returns and inconsistencies in handover reports.
• A well-structured addendum in your lease, covering repairs, subleasing and key return can take action in many common disputes.

Get your Dubai rental handover checklist

If you're ready to make your end-of-year handover seamless, download our free "Landlord handover checklist". It's an easy, step by step guide that you can use during the final round of inspection and document everything and ensure that both you and your tenant agree on the property's state.

A structured end-of-tenance process is not just a good choice, but it is also a wise risk management strategy. Using a legally compliant checklist, documenting everything, and being transparent with your tenant can protect your investment and reduce disputes.