🏠 Can Tenants Request Snagging? A Guide for Dubai Landlords & Renters 🧾🔍
- The Property Marketing
- 11 minutes ago
- 5 min read
Dubai’s skyline is booming with new developments 🏙️ — from luxury villas in Arabian Ranches to high-rise apartments in Marina. But while the real estate market is evolving at lightning speed, so are the concerns of tenants dealing with property defects.
One question keeps popping up:“Can tenants request snagging?”The answer is more important than ever — especially in a market where fast handovers sometimes mean overlooked defects.
In this guide, we'll uncover the full picture for both landlords and renters 🧑💼🏡— breaking down laws, rights, best practices, and exactly how tenants can request snagging in Dubai ✅
🔍 What Is Snagging in Dubai Real Estate?
“Snagging” refers to a detailed inspection of a property to identify defects or unfinished work 🕵️♂️. While typically done before the handover to a buyer, snagging is becoming increasingly relevant for tenants too — especially in brand-new rental units.
Here are common issues uncovered during snagging:
🧱 Cracks in walls or tiles
🚿 Leaking faucets, showerheads, or drainage
💡 Loose electrical sockets or faulty lights
🚪 Doors that don’t close properly
🪟 Windows that don’t seal properly
🖌️ Paint splashes, poor finishes, or chipped corners
These may seem small — but over time, they can affect comfort, safety, and even your wallet 💸.
🤔 Can Tenants Request Snagging in Dubai?
✅ The Short Answer: Yes, But It Depends
Yes, tenants can request snagging — but it's not as simple as buyers' rights. It depends on:
📄 Your tenancy contract
🧰 The landlord’s willingness
📍 The type and severity of the snags⚖️ Dubai tenancy law interpretation
Here’s how it breaks down:
🧍 For Tenants: Know Your Rights 💡
If you're renting, here's what you should know:
📝 Check your contract: Most contracts don't mention “snagging,” but they often require the landlord to provide a habitable and well-maintained property.
📸 Document everything: Upon move-in, take photos/videos of every room — especially defects.
🧰 Hire a professional snagging company: You can use services like ours to inspect your unit thoroughly and present a detailed snagging report.
📧 Submit the report to your landlord: Politely ask for the issues to be addressed, ideally with clear proof and recommendations.
💬 Maintain all communication in writing: Emails, WhatsApp, or documented conversations help if there’s a future dispute.
👨💼 For Landlords: Avoid Disputes, Gain Loyal Tenants
If you’re a landlord, ignoring snags can cause:
❌ Legal complaints
❌ Early tenant termination
❌ Damage to your reputation
❌ Lower rental yields
✨ Solution? Be proactive:
🔍 Conduct snagging inspections before handover
📋 Share the snagging report with new tenants
🔧 Fix everything before move-in — especially electrical, plumbing, or HVAC issues
🤝 Be responsive when tenants raise concerns
🎯 A well-maintained unit = fewer headaches and more long-term profit
📜 What Does Dubai Tenancy Law Say?
While the word “snagging” isn’t explicitly mentioned, Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 and RERA regulations make several things clear:
⚖️ Landlords must deliver a habitable property⚖️ They must fix major defects or system failures (e.g., AC, plumbing)⚖️ Tenants have the right to file complaints if defects affect health, safety, or usability
Bottom Line? If snags are severe or pose risks, the tenant has every right to demand repairs — and support their request with a snagging report.
📌 Benefits of Tenants Requesting Snagging
Still wondering if it’s worth it? Here's why tenants should request snagging:
💼 Professional protection: Prevent landlords from blaming you for pre-existing damage.
💸 Security deposit safety: Ensure you don’t lose your deposit over minor issues.
🏠 Better living experience: Fix those annoying leaks, rattles, and faulty fixtures before they become major problems.
🧾 Leverage in negotiations: Use snag reports to negotiate rent or request early repairs.
🔢 Step-by-Step Guide: How Tenants Can Request Snagging
Follow these steps to protect your rental experience 👇
1️⃣ Inspect Immediately Upon Move-In
🧍 Walk through each room and look for snags. Use a checklist if needed.
2️⃣ Document Everything
📸 Take HD photos and videos. Log all issues in a spreadsheet or list.
3️⃣ Hire a Snagging Company
🛠️ A professional inspection (like PropertySnagging.ae offers) can reveal hidden or technical issues that aren't visible to the naked eye.
4️⃣ Share the Report with the Landlord
📩 Email or WhatsApp the full snag report with a polite request to fix major issues.
5️⃣ Follow Up
⏰ Set realistic deadlines. If ignored, you can file a complaint via RERA.
🚫 What If the Landlord Refuses?
Some landlords brush off tenant complaints
😤. Here’s what to do:
⚠️ Keep all communications in writing
⚠️ File a complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Settlement Centre
⚠️ Use your snag report as formal proof
⚠️ Consider requesting rent compensation or withholding rent until major issues are resolved (consult legal support first)
🧑💼 Case Study: A Tenant in Business Bay Speaks Up 🗣️
Zain, a marketing professional, rented a 1-bedroom in Business Bay. On day one, he noticed:
🚫 Flickering lights
🚫 Strange water pressure
🚫 Air conditioning issues
He hired PropertySnagging.ae
🔧. The report uncovered 12+ snags, which Zain used to formally request repairs.
📣 Within 6 days, everything was fixed by the landlord — including a complimentary deep clean!Zain’s verdict: “Best decision I made! My apartment feels brand new.”
🔐 Landlords: Want to Prevent Complaints?
Landlords who handle snagging proactively gain:
✅ Trust
✅ Faster rentals
✅ Positive Google reviews
✅ Long-term tenants
💼 Tip: Add “snag-free certified” to your property listing. It builds confidence and saves you time during tenancy!
🧾 Final Word: Tenants Can Request Snagging — And Absolutely Should
If you’re renting in Dubai, don’t assume you’re powerless 🧍♂️.
💥 Tenants can request snagging and should do so — especially in newer or high-value units.
Remember, a few cracks or leaks now can cost you later. Taking action early saves you time, money, and frustration.
So whether you’re in JVC, Marina, Downtown, or beyond — snag smart, live better.
📞 Ready to Snag Your Property?
We make snagging easy, professional, and fast. Whether you’re a landlord or tenant — we’ve got your back! 🙌
📧 Email Us : Hello@propertysnagging.ae
📞 WhatsApp/Call: +971 56 790 7966
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