Rental Property Handover Checklist for Dubai Landlords

A smooth handover starts before the new tenant arrives. A short, organised inspection helps you record the home’s condition, confirm what is included and make it easier to follow up on any open work. This Dubai landlord handover checklist is a practical guide; always follow the signed agreement and current local requirements for your property.

Prepare the apartment before the visit

Gather the previous inspection notes, appliance list, manuals, service records and any open repair requests. Check the property while it is as clear as possible. If cleaning or a repair is still under way, note what remains and who is expected to complete it. Do not describe a job as finished until you have checked the result.

Make a simple room list: entry, living area, kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, balcony and storage areas. Use the same order each time. This makes comparisons easier and reduces the chance of overlooking a small space.

Inspect and record each room

Look at walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, cupboards and visible fixtures. Note marks or damage with a short description and take dated photos. Photograph supplied furniture and appliances so there is a record of their condition. If an item is not included in the tenancy, label it clearly in the inventory notes.

Test ordinary lights, switches, taps and drains. Check supplied appliances using their normal controls. Look under sinks and around visible plumbing for signs of moisture. If you find an active leak, electrical fault or another safety concern, arrange for a qualified person to review it. Do not ask a tenant to use equipment that may be unsafe.

Organise access and important information

Count the keys, access cards, parking remotes and mailbox keys that will be handed over. Record the number and explain what each item is for. Share the correct contact for routine maintenance and the process for urgent issues. Give the tenant any available appliance instructions, building guidance and service details they need.

Keep a copy of the signed inventory, photos, handover date and communication in one property folder. If a building contact or service provider changes, update the record rather than relying on an old note.

Close the handover clearly

Walk through the open items with the tenant and agree how they will be tracked. Send a brief written summary after the visit. Include completed checks, any pending work, who will follow up and the expected next update. Keep the wording factual and avoid promising a completion time until it has been confirmed.

Landlord handover checklist

• Collect the inventory, repair notes and appliance information.
• Inspect each room in a consistent order.
• Record condition with clear notes and dated photos.
• Count keys, cards and remotes before handing them over.
• Share contact details and explain how to report issues.
• Save the final handover record in the property file.

A repeatable process helps owners and tenants start with the same information. For a view of the Friends residential portfolio, visit Properties.