Moving Out of a Rental in Dubai: Painting, Cleaning and Handover Tips

Getting your rental hand-over right can protect your deposit. Requirements differ from landlord to landlord, so treat this as a guide and confirm the details in writing.

1. Read your tenancy contract

Check the notice period, the condition you must return the property in, and any repainting or cleaning requirements. Confirm anything unclear with your landlord or agent in writing.

2. Document the condition

Photograph every room, including walls, floors, kitchen, bathrooms and fittings. If you kept photos from move-in, compare them with the current state.

3. Painting and touch-ups

Marks, scuffs and nail holes are common. Depending on your contract and the condition of the walls, you may need to touch up or repaint. If so, plan it before your final day. GPS Movers offers painting for homes and offices, and it can be planned alongside your move.

4. Cleaning

• Clean the kitchen, including the oven, hob and extractor
• Descale bathrooms and clean fittings
• Clean windows, balcony and cupboards
• Remove all rubbish and leftover items

5. Small repairs

Tighten loose handles, replace dead bulbs and repair minor damage if your contract makes you responsible for it. Keep receipts.

6. Time your move with the hand-over

Move out first, then paint and clean the empty space, then do the final inspection. If your dates are tight, tell your mover. If you need somewhere to keep your belongings in between, our storage service can help.

7. Final walk-through

Walk through with the landlord or agent, agree the condition and get the hand-over confirmed in writing. Return keys and access cards and take photos of the empty property.