Who pays for energy-saving upgrades in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

As a specialist in Dubai's building performance, this is a very common issue, especially in sun-exposed units in Marina. The responsibility for energy-saving upgrades typically falls into a grey area defined by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Tenancy Law.

Generally, structural or permanent modifications to the property—like installing external shading, upgrading the AC unit itself, or applying window film if it alters the building's external appearance—are the landlord's responsibility. However, they are not legally obligated to make these upgrades unless the property is uninhabitable. Tenants are usually responsible for minor, non-permanent improvements. Many modern tenancy contracts now include specific clauses about "green" modifications, so reviewing your contract is the first critical step.

For your specific case with the window film: many buildings in Dubai have strata rules that prohibit any external alterations that affect the building's aesthetic uniformity. Applying film without permission could violate these rules. The best course of action is to formally request permission from your landlord or property management company, framing it as a measure that reduces their long-term AC maintenance costs and improves tenant comfort.

Given your high DEWA bills and the room's persistent heat, I'd highly recommend a professional indoor environmental inspection. The issue might not just be solar gain; it could be inadequate insulation, poor AC ductwork sealing, or negative pressure issues. Our certified assessors can perform a thermal imaging scan and air quality analysis to pinpoint the exact cause and provide a landlord-approved remediation plan.

For a definitive assessment, call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can advise on the most effective and permissible solutions for your specific building.