What you need to know as a tenant in Sharjah

Most expats in Sharjah live in rental homes. The emirate has comprehensive laws to regulate the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords. However, many renters are not aware of important Sharjah tenancy laws. Here are essential tenancy rules, laws and rights in Sharjah that every tenant must know about.

IMPORTANT SHARJAH TENANCY LAWS AND RIGHTS TO KNOW

The family-friendly emirate of Sharjah is a popular choice for prospective tenants in the UAE, due to its affordability and a wide selection of properties. In fact, many tenants choose to rent in Sharjah and work in Dubai, taking advantage of lower rentals and the wealth of amenities the city has to offer.

Here are some rental laws in Sharjah to keep in mind before you sign a tenancy contract in the emirate.

NUMBER OF PEOPLE OCCUPYING A UNIT

An important part of tenancy laws in the emirate is the number of people allowed per residential unit. The number is based on the size of the property.

Sharjah Tenancy Rules for accommodation sharing

For bachelors, the maximum number of tenants allowed in shared accommodation’s are the same as in the case of families:

• Three people in studio apartments
• Four people in 1-bedroom apartments
• Six people in 2-bedroom apartments
• Nine people in 3-bedroom apartments

Tenants are also required to declare the number of people living in the unit when leasing a property.

RULES FOR BACHELOR ACCOMMODATION IN SHARJAH

Residential restrictions for low-income bachelors and labourers:

• Low-income bachelors or labourers cannot reside in residential neighbourhoods or family areas.
• They are permitted to live only in industrial areas or Al Saja.

Sharjah room sharing and subletting rules in Sharjah:

• Bachelors in designated areas can share rooms.
• Subletting is strictly prohibited.

• Professionals such as doctors and engineers (executive bachelors) may live in residential or commercial buildings with the landlord’s consent.

Family-only residential areas:

• Only families can live in residential and commercial buildings in areas like Al Majaz and Al Nahda.
• When leasing or renewing a contract, families must provide supporting documents for all residents, including copies of passports and marriage certificates.

RENT INCREASE RULES BY SHARJAH MUNICIPALITY

When it comes to Sharjah Municipality tenancy contract rules, there is a lack of general awareness among residents. It is important for renters to be aware of the tenancy contract regulations related to rent increase in Sharjah.

• States that landlords can increase the rent only after three years from the start of the tenancy contract.

No cap on rent increase:

• There is no cap on the rent increase, but it should be in line with similar properties in the area.

Subsequent rent increases:

• After the first increase, landlords can only increase the rent every two years. This protects renters from annual rental hikes.

SHARJAH MUNICIPALITY TENANCY CONTRACT RULES ON TENANTS DEFAULTING ON RENT PAYMENT

The Sharjah tenancy contract laws also cover situations where the tenants default on rental payments. If this occurs, the landlord is allowed to evict the tenant — specifically if the rent has not been paid within fifteen days after it is due.

These are some of the Sharjah tenancy laws that renters should know. To prevent disputes, potential tenants are advised to go through tenancy contracts thoroughly before they sign.

OTHER TENANTS RIGHTS IN SHARJAH

As per Sharjah house rent rules, these are the rights of tenants in the emirate:

• The landlord must carry out necessary maintenance of the property during the tenancy period. Tenants are responsible for minor issues unless otherwise agreed in the rental contract.

• If the owner decides to sell the property or in the event of the owner’s death, the lease agreement remains unaffected under new ownership.

• Landlords or real estate agents cannot charge tenants a renewal fee when renewing the rental contract, as prohibited by Sharjah tenancy laws.

• Landlords can only terminate the tenancy contract under specific circumstances:
  • Demolishing the property
  • Conducting complete maintenance that requires eviction
  • Occupying the property for personal use with no other appropriate residence available
  • In such cases, landlords must have permits from Sharjah Municipality and provide the tenant with three months’ notice.
  • The rental property must meet the specifications outlined in the tenancy contract.

  FAQs

  HOW CAN TENANTS IN SHARJAH RENEW THEIR TENANCY CONTRACTS?

  Sharjah tenancy contract renewal is for families only. Visit the official website of the Sharjah Municipality to initiate the process. Documents required include:

  • Emirates ID
  • SEWA bill
  • Signed original tenancy contract
  • Other documents as required

  WHERE ARE TENANCY CONTRACTS IN SHARJAH REGISTERED?

  Tenancy contracts in the emirate are attested and registered with the Sharjah Municipality.

  If you have any more questions regarding Sharjah rental law and tenants’ rights, you can contact the Rent Regulation Department at +971-6-593-1535.

  APART FROM SHARJAH TENANCY CONTRACT RULES, WHAT ARE THE TENANCY LAWS IN DUBAI AND ABU DHABI?

  If you live in the neighbouring cities, take a look at the tenant rights in Dubai or familiarise yourself with the Abu Dhabi tenancy laws.

  That brings an end to MyBayut’s guide to Sharjah Municipality tenancy contract rules. Use our guide to stay informed about the Sharjah Municipality rules for tenancy when signing your lease agreement.

  Looking for a new home in Sharjah? Browse through Bayut’s listings to find the perfect apartments for rent in Sharjah. If you are changing houses, you can hire a moving company in Sharjah.

  Stay tuned to our Rules and Regulations section for more updates on property laws in the UAE.