Renewing a tenancy contract can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the laws of the area. In Sharjah, UAE, renewing a tenancy contract follows a specific process that every tenant should know. This article aims to guide tenants on how to renew their tenancy contract in Sharjah.

1. Review the Existing Tenancy Contract

Before renewing the tenancy contract, it is essential to review the existing contract. This includes checking the expiry date, rental amount, and renewal clause. The renewal clause specifies the terms and conditions of renewing the contract. It is important to familiarize yourself with this clause to avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts in the future.

2. Communicate with the Landlord

The next step is to communicate with the landlord or the property management company about renewing the tenancy contract. This should be done at least three months before the expiry date to give both parties time to negotiate and finalize the renewal terms. The landlord may require some documents such as income certificate, passport copy, and visa copy.

3. Negotiate Renewal Terms

Once the landlord agrees to renew the tenancy contract, the next step is to negotiate the renewal terms. This includes the rental amount, payment terms, security deposit, and other special conditions such as the maintenance responsibilities and the notice period for termination. Both parties should come to an agreement and sign the new contract.

4. Register the Renewal Contract

In Sharjah, it is mandatory to register the tenancy contract with the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department. This applies to both the original and renewal contracts. The landlord is required to pay the registration fees, which is 2% of the annual rent, while the tenant pays the typing fees, which is usually around AED 200.

5. Obtain Ejari Certificate

After registering the tenancy contract, the tenant should obtain an Ejari Certificate. This document serves as proof of the tenancy contract and is required for various official purposes such as residency visa renewal, DEWA connection, and other activities. The Ejari Certificate can be obtained online or at the Customer Happiness Centers of the Dubai Land Department.

In conclusion, renewing a tenancy contract in Sharjah requires diligence, negotiation, and adherence to the legal requirements. As a tenant, it is essential to review the existing contract, communicate with the landlord, negotiate the renewal terms, register the contract and obtain the Ejari Certificate. By following these steps, tenants can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free tenancy renewal process in Sharjah.