The UAE’s diverse real estate landscape offers a wide range of residential options, often bundled with added benefits to attract tenants. One such offering is utilities included in the rent. Commonly available in short-term rentals and serviced apartments, this arrangement provides added convenience by covering essential services within a single payment. Understanding what utilities typically cover helps tenants assess the actual cost of renting and make an informed decision.
Utilities Included in the UAE’s Rental
The utilities included with rent in the UAE can vary depending on factors such as the building, location, landlord preferences and market demand. However, the following basic utilities are commonly included.
Electricity and Water
Electricity and water are common utilities that landlords typically highlight separately to notify the tenants. For example, many properties with utilities will specify ‘DEWA included’. When this is stated, tenants are not required to set up separate accounts with the relevant authorities for electricity and water. Instead, a fixed amount is incorporated into the rent to cover the cost of these utilities.
Air Conditioning and Cooling
Air conditioning and cooling account for a significant portion of variable expenses in the UAE, contributing heavily to rising electricity bills. When air conditioning and cooling are included in the rent, it means the landlord covers the cost of either district cooling or chiller-free systems. The charges can either be fixed, depending on the size of the unit, or variable, based on actual consumption.
Internet and Telephony
Internet and telephony services are usually included in short-term or shared accommodations for rent in the UAE. Typically, Wi-Fi is provided as part of the services, while in some high-end serviced apartments, a landline may also be included.
Gas
Landlords may offer two types of gas connections: buildings connected to piped natural gas, typically found in newer developments in the UAE, or individual LPG cylinders. In both cases, tenants can access the gas services provided by the landlord.
Housing Fees and Maintenance Charges
Maintenance or service charges are the responsibility of the homeowner. These charges are defined by relevant authorities like the Dubai Land Department (DLD) in Dubai and can vary from building to building based on several factors. Typically, these charges cover the cost of maintaining common areas, trash disposal, security services and landscaping.
What Utilities Are Not Included in the UAE Rentals
The utilities included typically cover basic services and related expenses. However, there are certain costs that tenants are still responsible for:
- Security deposits are refundable, but tenants are required to pay them upfront.
- Usage of utilities often come with a cap, and exceeding that limit will be charged to the tenant.
- Mobile phone plans are not included. Tenants are responsible for paying for them.
- Laundry services are not part of the utilities package. Tenants must cover this cost separately.
- If the unit is unfurnished, tenants will be responsible for purchasing and providing their own appliances and furnishings.
FAQs
What utilities are usually included in UAE rental properties?
The commonly included utilities in UAE rental properties are electricity, water, cooling (chiller) and sometimes internet and TV services, depending on the agreement.
Do tenants pay electricity and water bills in the UAE?
In most cases, tenants are responsible for paying their electricity and water bills, unless specified otherwise in the rental agreement.
Are chiller fees included in rent in the UAE?
Chiller fees are often separate from rent, though some properties may include them in the overall rent. The inclusion of the chiller fee is completely dependent on the tenancy agreement.
This is what utilities included in the UAE rentals typically means. The utilities package offers added convenience to tenants for a relatively small cost. However, even when utilities included are mentioned in the advertisement of properties for rent in the UAE, it is essential to confirm the specifics with the landlord before finalising the rental agreement. Besides utilities, there are a few other things to check in a tenancy contract to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s property blog to learn more about tenancy contracts and utility payments in the UAE.
