What You’re Entitled to After Handover

Warranties & Defects

• Do off-plan properties come with a warranty or defect liability period after handover?

  Yes, in Dubai, developers are legally required to provide a one-year defect liability period after handover, during which they must fix any snagging issues or faults reported by the buyer. Additionally, there’s a 10-year structural warranty that covers major structural defects.

• What is covered under the defect liability period for off-plan properties?

  The defect liability period typically covers:

  • Electrical faults
  • Plumbing issues
  • Air conditioning malfunctions
  • Finishing defects (tiles, paint, fixtures)

• Who is responsible for repairs during the warranty period in Dubai?

  During the defect liability period, the developer is responsible for repairing non-structural faults. For major structural issues, the developer or contractor is liable for up to 10 years from completion, as per Dubai's real estate laws

• Can I claim warranty coverage after leasing the off-plan property to a tenant?

  Yes, the warranty still applies after leasing. However:

  • The owner must file the complaint, not the tenant
  • Developers may require access to the unit
  • Warranty claims should be within the valid period from handover

• What happens if a developer refuses to fix issues during the warranty period?

  If the developer fails to address defects within the liability period:

  • File a complaint with the Dubai Land Department (DLD)
  • Provide photos, handover documents, and written communication
  • DLD may intervene and take corrective actions or impose penalties