Property maintenance guide and must-do's

Being a property owner in Dubai comes with the responsibility of maintaining it properly. Dubai's unique climate requires a specialised property maintenance approach. Most property owners find it difficult to maintain their properties, but our comprehensive guide will make the process easy for them. So read on to discover the secrets to successful property maintenance in Dubai.

Property Maintenance Checklist

Regular AC Maintenance

A well-functioning air conditioning system is non-negotiable. You will need your air-conditioning to be in top form during the summer months, so make sure it delivers the chill factor before the heat kicks in. Regular servicing, filter cleaning, and refrigerant checks prevent costly breakdowns.

Keep the Sand and Dust at Bay

Dubai's desert location easily infiltrates your property with sand and dust, damaging interiors, appliances, and electronics. Inspect your property regularly for entry points, such as gaps around doors and windows, and seal them.

Deal with Pesky Pests

Dubai's warm climate is ideal for pests like cockroaches, rodents, and termites. These pests can cause infestations and damage to property. Regular pest control measures, such as baiting, trapping, and sealing, will prevent infestations and safeguard your property.

Combat Limescale Buildup

Dubai's water supply contains high mineral content, which can lead to limescale buildup in pipes and appliances. Install a water softener to prevent this issue. Most people are switching to filtered tap water, but cleaning the water tank annually (at least) is necessary. Cleaning and flushing the drains every six months is non-negotiable and helps avoid the possibility of airborne bugs taking hold. Internal and external pipe leaks should also be checked, and it's important to maintain faucets and toilets routinely.

Take Care of Windows

Sand makes windows extremely dusty, so hire a power washing service once a year to get them clean. Install blinds or curtains with reflective backing to minimise heat absorption through windows.

Exterior Paint Maintenance

The scorching sun can wreak havoc on exterior surfaces, causing paint to peel and materials to deteriorate. Heat-resistant paint and coatings refresh exteriors and put a personal stamp on your home. If you are renting, do remember that if you paint your home a different colour, you will be required to return it to the original hue before you move out.

Hire Professionals

Most home maintenance tasks require expert services, so home maintenance companies like Octopus come in handy. They provide plumbing, electrical, painting, handyman, and AC repair services in Dubai. They also provide an annual contract, which can be extremely beneficial, particularly when you consider how hard an A/C unit has to work in this climate, not to mention the impact sand and humidity can have on your home. An annual maintenance contract with Octopus will ensure preventative maintenance is carried out periodically, which is beneficial to keeping your AC, electrical and plumbing in good condition. Ensure the contract includes water tank cleaning, which is important for maintaining a healthy water supply.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional property maintenance tips worth considering.

• A poorly maintained property will create problems from day one, so choose a good landlord who maintains the property well and keeps records.
• If you are the homeowner, get a site survey or audit done on the property to ensure things are working well, or check previous maintenance records for work.
• If you live in a villa and have no time to dump your plastics, Green Truck and Planet Green will collect your recyclables for a fee from your door.
• Faulty wiring poses a safety risk, so conduct an annual check of your electrical supply and wiring.

• Call an expert to sort those fiddly little home maintenance jobs like putting up shelves, fixing picture frames to the wall or assembling tricky flat-pack furniture.

   

Common Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

You can increase the property's value by avoiding these common maintenance mistakes.

• Please don't use harsh cleaning agents as they contain abrasive chemicals that can scratch or dull surfaces.
• Don't ignore leaks, no matter how small. Identify and fix the source of moisture to prevent further damage.
• Excessive air conditioning usage can lead to higher energy bills, wear and tear on the AC unit, and reduced indoor air quality. So, explore alternative cooling methods like fans and blinds.

• Failing to maintain outdoor areas is a mistake that can detract from a property's overall appearance and value. Dubai's harsh climate can take a toll on outdoor spaces, so regular maintenance is essential.

   

Maintenance Charges in Dubai

The maintenance cost in Dubai varies from location to location and property type. They are higher in prime locations like Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina, while lower in less central areas. Maintenance charges range from AED 10 to AED 30 per sq. ft. per year for apartments and AED 2 to AED 6 per sq. ft. per year for villas. For example, maintaining a 1,200 sq. ft. apartment at AED 15 per sq. ft. would cost AED 18,000 annually. Payments are usually made once a year, though some companies offer the option to pay quarterly or bi-annually.

Conclusion

Just as you take care of yourself, your home must also be looked after, especially because of the harsh climate Dubai experiences. When running a home in Dubai, there is more than rent, mortgages, insurance, and living expenses to consider. Keep your home tip-top by staying on top of these maintenance must-dos. Regular maintenance not only preserves the value of your property but also ensures a safe and comfortable living environment in the demanding Dubai climate.