
Hi everyone, Looking for some advice regarding a move-out dispute in Dubai. We recently moved out of our apartment and have now left the UAE.
Our security deposit was AED 2,000, but after moving out we were sent a maintenance quotation that exceeds the deposit amount and were asked to transfer the difference to a bank account provided by the broker.
A few things concern me: Many of the charges appear to be routine maintenance rather than tenant-caused damage (painting, pest control, AC servicing, sealant replacement, etc.). The quotation appears to come from a third-party maintenance company.
We have not been provided with clear before-and-after evidence showing that the alleged damages were caused by us. The payment is being requested through the broker rather than directly by the landlord or building management. We are already living overseas.
My questions: Can a landlord legally charge beyond the security deposit in situations like this? Should they be providing inspection reports, photos, and proof of actual damage? What happens if we refuse to pay the additional amount?
Has anyone successfully challenged similar claims through RERA or the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre? At t