Before Move-In Paperwork

Before moving into a rented home in Dubai, tenants should make sure the paperwork is complete. The signed tenancy contract, Ejari registration, payment receipts, landlord documents, tenant identification and any building move-in forms should be organized before the moving date.

This step matters because missing paperwork can delay DEWA activation, internet installation, access cards, elevator booking or even the actual move-in approval. Tenants should keep digital and printed copies of the main documents in case building security or management requests them.

• Keep contract, Ejari and receipts ready
• Prepare tenant and landlord documents
• Ask building management for required forms
• Keep digital and printed copies

Utilities, Internet and Building Access

A smooth move-in depends on activating utilities early. Tenants should arrange DEWA, confirm cooling or chiller requirements where applicable, schedule internet installation and check whether the building needs a separate registration for access cards, parking remote or community gates.

Some towers and communities require moving company details, truck timing, elevator booking, security approval and refundable deposits for possible damage during the move. These rules should be confirmed before the moving truck arrives, not on the same day.

• Activate DEWA before moving day
• Schedule internet early
• Confirm access cards and parking
• Book elevator and building approval if required

Inspection and Condition Report

Before placing furniture inside the apartment, tenants should inspect and record the property condition. Take photos and videos of walls, floors, ceilings, bathrooms, kitchen, appliances, wardrobes, balcony, doors, locks, windows, AC vents, water pressure and any existing scratches or stains.

A written condition report is helpful because it protects the security deposit at the end of the lease. Any issue should be sent to the landlord or property manager immediately, with photos attached and a clear request for repair if needed.

• Inspect before moving furniture in
• Take photos and videos of every room
• Send defects in writing immediately
• Use the report to protect the deposit

Handover, Keys and First-Week Checks

On handover day, tenants should receive all keys, access cards, parking remotes, mailbox keys, appliance manuals if available and contact details for maintenance or building management. The tenant should test access to parking, elevators, gym, pool and common areas before considering the handover complete.

During the first week, tenants should monitor AC performance, hot water, drainage, appliances, internet stability, noise, leaks and any hidden defects that may not have appeared during the first viewing. Reporting issues early makes it easier to solve them and reduces future disputes.

• Collect all keys and access cards
• Test parking and facilities access
• Monitor hidden issues during the first week
• Report problems early in writing