Homeowners and investors are struggling to find reliable contractors when renovating their properties in Dubai as many companies take advantage of high demand, experts said.
Demand for property in the UAE that is fully renovated and upgraded is “as high as ever”, real estate experts previously told The National, which has led many investors to buy houses to renovate them and then sell on at a profit, a strategy known as flipping.
At the same time, more residents are choosing to become homeowners because they want long-term stability and to avoid increasing rental prices. After they move in, they begin the process of renovating the property to make it their own.
“Dubai is such a fast-developing community and now with property prices going up, everyone is jumping on the property flip bandwagon, so there’s a lot of work,” said Kyle Richardson, co-owner of Rare Renovations, who worked in architectural and interior design in the UK.
“Here, there’s so much work, I don’t think these smaller companies focus on doing a good job because they know whether they’ve finished it well or not, there’s going to be someone else ringing or someone else saying they want to have some work done.”
Firstly, having a detailed written contract with your contractor is crucial. “This contract should outline the scope of work, timelines, payment schedules and dispute resolution mechanisms.
It’s also important to include warranties for the materials used and the workmanship, as well as a clear dispute resolution clause, he added. “This may involve mediation or arbitration as a means to resolve conflicts without resorting to lengthy and costly litigation.”
“Such a document serves as a vital tool to enforce your rights if issues arise.”
Next, make sure all necessary permits and approvals from local authorities are obtained before starting any work, he added. “Failure to secure the required permits can lead to legal complications and potential fines.”
Also ensure the contractor has adequate insurance coverage, including liability insurance and workers’ compensation, which can protect you from any potential liability for accidents or damages that occur during the renovation process.
Be careful when it comes to payment structure, “Avoid making large upfront payments and instead consider a milestone payment schedule tied to the completion of specific project stages. This ensures the contractor has an ongoing incentive to complete the work satisfactorily.”
Finally, keep meticulous records of all work done throughout the process. “At each stage, document whether the work has been completed to your satisfaction and notify the contractor in writing about your approval or any concerns. This creates a clear paper trail that can be invaluable if disputes arise.”
“If issues do occur, it is crucial not to change or hire another contractor before formally disputing your rights with the original contractor. Doing so can complicate your legal position and undermine your ability to seek redress.”
