Move-in inspection in Dubai: check everything before you accept the keys

Yes, and you should. Ask for a joint inspection at handover with the landlord, agent or property manager, before signing anything. Allow at least an hour. Go in daylight if you can.

Ask for one. Many agents and managers use a move-in condition report; if they don't, make your own list and send it by email or WhatsApp. Both sides should keep a copy. Don't sign a report saying everything is fine if it isn't.

How to document it properly: photos and damage records.

Cleaning and paint

• Clean throughout, including inside cupboards, the oven and the fridge
• Fresh paint where it was promised, with no stains or patches
• Any agreed repairs actually finished

Power and cooling

• Every light, socket and switch
• AC in every room: let it run 15 to 30 minutes and feel for cold air
• Appliances: oven, hob, fridge, washing machine, dishwasher

Water

• Every tap (hot and cold), shower and toilet flush
• Drains empty quickly, with no smells
• The water heater heats up
• Under sinks and around toilets: dry, no stains

Damp and pests

• Leaks, damp patches, bubbling paint or ceiling stains
• Mould in bathrooms, wardrobes and behind furniture
• Signs of pests: droppings, insects, gnaw marks

Doors, windows and safety

• Every door, window and balcony door opens, closes and locks
• Smoke detectors and any heat or gas detectors work
• Fire blanket or extinguisher, if provided

If utilities aren't on yet, write "not tested" against those items and book a re-check.

Ask for a furniture and appliance inventory and check each item against it, noting condition. Anything missing or damaged goes on the report with a photo, plus a written agreement on when it'll be replaced and who pays.

If there are serious problems (major leaks, unsafe electrics, no working bathroom), you can ask to postpone. Dubai's rental law requires the landlord to hand over the property in a usable condition. But refusing the keys doesn't automatically pause your rent or cancel the contract. Put the problems in writing, agree a repair date and re-inspection, and record any change to the start date or rent. If you can't agree, get advice from the Rental Dispute Center before withholding payment.

Small cosmetic issues are usually just listed with a repair deadline.

Repairs that affect your use of the home are normally the landlord's, unless your contract says otherwise. If promised cleaning wasn't done properly, ask the landlord to arrange or refund it. A deep clean you'd simply like is on you. Get written approval before booking anything you expect to be repaid for, and never deduct costs from rent without agreement.

Some issues only appear once the power, water and AC are running. Report them as soon as you find them, with photos or video and the date. How to report defects after handover.