Simplifying real estate: How do you find the service charge for a property?

If you live in Dubai, you already know all anyone’s thinking about is investing in the thriving property market.

So, if you’re one of them and considering investing, there's more to consider than just the property and its upfront cost.

Property owners in Dubai need to factor in service charges. What’s that, you might ask? Service charges are those which cover the maintenance and upkeep of common areas in residential buildings or communities. These charges are essential for keeping your property and surroundings in perfect shape, and finding out how much they are is now easier than ever, thanks to Dubai Land Department's (DLD) Service Charge Index.

Yes, another online service making the lives of Dubai residents easier than ever. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you could go about it!

What are service charges?

So, in case you didn’t know - Service charges are recurring fees that homeowners pay for the maintenance and upkeep of shared areas in Dubai's residential properties.

These charges can vary based on the type of property, the range of services provided under the service contract, and usually cover expenses like security staff, cleaning, maintenance, landscaping, and other aspects of property management.

Why are these charges important to be paid?

These charges contribute to the overall cost of owning a property and ensure a smooth operation, onboarding process and cleanliness of shared spaces.

How can you check your service charges and pay them?

Dubai Land Department has launched a user-friendly tool, the Service Charge Index, which is accessible through their website or the 'Dubai REST' app.

Here's how you can use it:

• Visit the DLD Website: Go to the DLD website's service charge index.
• Access the service: Click on 'Access this service' to get started.
• Choose your search method:

1. By title deed number: If you have selected the title deed option, you would have to have the certificate or title deed number on hand, enter it, along with the certificate issuance year, property type, and the year you want to inquire about.

Complete the captcha verification and click 'calculate.' It will show you your service charge.

2. By service fees indicator: If you opt for the service fees indicator option, start by selecting the project name from the dropdown menu, choose the usage type (e.g., office, residential, retail), and specify the year you're inquiring about.

Complete the captcha verification and click 'calculate.' You shall receive the calculations.

3. Location map: Selecting this option on the menu? You want to begin by verifying yourself, select the area where your property is located, choose the project name from the dropdown menu, specify the usage type, and the year you want to inquire about.

Finish by clicking 'calculate.'

Review the details: Once you've completed the required steps, you'll receive information about the managing establishment for your property and a detailed breakdown of the service charge costs.

Dubai's Service Charge Index provides homeowners with transparency and streamlines the payment process, reducing potential disputes between property owners, developers, and management companies.

By understanding your property's service charges, you can budget effectively and ensure your investment remains in excellent condition. Love that, right?

Keen to know more?

If you’d like to know more about this service, get in touch with our Director of Property Management; Anisha Sagar!

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