What happens if I break my lease in Doha?

Gypsy
By Gypsy

My lease in my current place ends in December, but frankly I'm sick of paying for my overpriced rent while all around me prices are dropping. I wonder if everyone knows what the legal repercutions are of skipping out on my lease?

By Lali khan• 5 Apr 2018 12:52
Lali khan

In Qatar tenets and landlord are like jailor and culprit

Once your in rental house or jail you can not get out of the home as per your wish

It's decided by landlord (jailor)

By anonymous• 9 Mar 2011 11:07
anonymous

Is the deal stated in a contract in which you had to surrender post dated checks? No, you cannot.

By pgerhard• 9 Mar 2011 08:48
pgerhard

thanks, im preparing a reply, but wanted more opinion/experiences

cheers

p

By pgerhard• 9 Mar 2011 08:44
pgerhard

here is the lease law, can be useful

http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/law/121039-lease-law-no-42008-amendments-and-executive-decisions.html

By smoke• 9 Mar 2011 08:42
smoke

Then tell your landlord you do not accept the terms of the agreement and say you can find a better place for less. He needs you not you need him.

By pgerhard• 9 Mar 2011 08:38
pgerhard

thanks there is another close for force majeure (one month notice, one month penalty to pay).

But I am wondering if I just want to change place in the middle of the lease. I can't believe you would have to fork out so much money. 2 months rent + 2 months penalty + if you are unlucky loose security deposit = 5 months rent! for a one year lease.

p

By smoke• 9 Mar 2011 07:20
smoke

I dont know seems like the landlord thinks you are rolling in money then. I dont know about the lease laws but normally its just 1 months notice and they ask for a months security deposit. Even if you have to leave before the contract expires you just need to give the landlord a month's notice and you might forfeit the security deposit...not sure on that though.

By pgerhard• 9 Mar 2011 07:14
pgerhard

sorry for resurecting this topic.

I did not sign my contract yet as there is a clause i find strange.

If I break the contract before the term of the lease, I would have to give a 2 months notice, pay the remainder rent AND pay a penalty of equal to 2 months rent.

Apparently this provision is in accordance with the Lease Law.

My lease is for one year.

Is this ok? really.

By phaselock• 15 Sep 2009 01:24
Rating: 5/5
phaselock

The information below is from Qatar Goverment Online (Hukoomi), Citizens & Residents, Homeowners, Letting & Subletting Your Properties. Just found it while surfing. Hope this helps.

The new Law No. 4 pertaining to leasing property, introduced on 16 February 2007, applies only to non-furnished property that is leased for the purpose of residence or commercial / industrial use. Under this law, you are entitled to raise the amount of rent by 10% of the agreed amount stated in the lease contract every year. After the contract has terminated, the tenant must vacate the premises as agreed. If the tenant does not vacate the leased premises or delays in doing so, then as a landlord you have the right to demand that the tenant move out of the property and pay for damages incurred.

If either party wishes at any time to end the lease agreement, advanced notice must be given - 15 days for contracts less than 3 months, one month for contracts less than 6 months and two months if the contract is more than that. The notice must be given in writing unless agreed otherwise by both parties.

Should you need to request the tenant to leave the premises before the contract ends, you can do so inr one of the following five circumstances:

1. If the tenant does not pay the rent after 10 days from its due date without a

valid reason.

2. If the tenant sub-lets the leased premises or gives them up to someone else

without written permission from the landlord.

3. If the premises are used in a way that is contrary to public order, etiquettes

or in a manner that is harmful to the landlord’s interests.

4. If the tenant has never occupied the premises or closes them for more than six

months without a good reason.

5. If it is proven that the leased premises are prone to collapse and

may endanger the safety of the residents.

If you, as a landlord, transfer the ownership of the leased premises to someone else, then the lease contract will continue to be implemented and the conditions in it will be applied as agreed upon previously.

By Gypsy• 6 Aug 2009 08:51
Gypsy

I know, but Al Khor is a bit too far away. My parents & my boyfriend live in Gharraffa, so I want to be nearer to them. Umm Salal seems to be a good half way point to everywhere I need to be.

By Thejam• 6 Aug 2009 08:45
Thejam

you could get a massive 4 -5 bedroom villa in Al khor at that price

By Gypsy• 6 Aug 2009 08:41
Gypsy

half the week I'm down on the Corniche and the other half I'm up in Ras Laffan.

By DaRuDe• 6 Aug 2009 08:37
DaRuDe

Where do you worrrrrrrrrk ????

By Gypsy• 6 Aug 2009 07:44
Gypsy

I'm not looking at the "cheap" accommodation. I'm actually looking just a bit outside the city. So I can get a 3 bedroom villa in Umm Salal for 7,000 QR. Which is cheaper then what I'm paying for my 2 bedroom apartment by the Airport.

By Thejam• 6 Aug 2009 07:36
Rating: 5/5
Thejam

I went to visit two places yesterday advertised as cheap accomodation in doha.As I would have thought.They took the Staff or servant quarters and converted them into, family villas and advertised them for rent.This is my point the Cheap accomodation advertised is not the real deal. One of them was newly done but a make shift Kitchen was provide in the lobby as you enter like kitchen dinner, not the orgininal kitchen.In the other place a small box room wa s converted into the Kitchen and the original kitchen with all its pipes showing was shown as a store or a small room.

So rent has really not dropped in Doha.Just the size and styles of villas have.

By Thejam• 3 Aug 2009 10:36
Thejam

I don't think these cheap villas are advertised on this board in the classified and even if they are they say Indian only or pinoy only. I have been checking in the classified section here everything Pinoy only or indian only.Others are not welcome, good cheap accommodation only for Pinoy and Indians. others pay through the nose.

I guess i have to get a pinoy wife may be that will help.

By syed_kashif_izhar• 3 Aug 2009 10:21
Rating: 3/5
syed_kashif_izhar

I will suggest you to stick to your current lease term and after the expiry find another one.

In most of the lease agreements you have to pay for the entire term whether you live in it or you leave it, the cheques will not be returned back to you or if in your lease term some notice period is there then you can give the notice and pay the penalty for the breach (as per terms of your lease agreement) but keep it in mind to compare what you are paying as penalty and what you gain from the new lease agreement.

By anonymous• 3 Aug 2009 10:08
Rating: 4/5
anonymous

A month back I refused a QR 3,500 one for 3 room and small kitchen with a big bedroom sized Bathroom ...lol..in shared villa as the Water Electricty would be added too to the bill making it QR 4,000 around Al Saad....(around where the roadworks are currently going on...opposite trivoli furniture)...

Its was gone the next week...these were all through word of mouth that came my way.

By Thejam• 3 Aug 2009 09:40
Thejam

Jackmohan any idea where I can find these that is the area I am looking for as all my kids schools are not far from there and I am paying 4500 for a two bedroom with lounge in a shared villa in Dafna at the mo. Are they advertised anywhere, do you have any numbers.

Thanks

By anonymous• 3 Aug 2009 09:37
Rating: 3/5
anonymous

Thejam...

There are new villas comming up around Qatar Shoping Centre, BinOmran, TV Roundabout (behind Twinkys)....that too on both sides of the road....

One of my friends got there 4 Room (each room is about 10 feet x 10 feet) for QR 3,500. Previously for this setup the rate would be QR 6,000.

By eu61• 3 Aug 2009 09:28
eu61

For sure landlord is going to tell you that he will retain your PDC and you will have to pay for the whole period.

If really there is a superior law that undertakes whatever written in your contract, meaning that a notice of one months and lose of your deposit is enough, then you will have something in hand in order to negotiate.

My advice: get legal and formal advice.

Speak frankly to your landlord with written evidences, there could be three options:

- he allows you to get back your remaining checks according to law (it that exists).

- he offer you to cutoff your rental payment until it fullfills your expections according to current market situation (could be).

- no agreement at all, so depending on the money pending you can evaluate if it is worthy to move further to court or leave it and give the money as lost.

One time I saw that landlord retained and credited the checks but only until he found a new tenant - it could be an intermediate solution.

War looking for peace,

is like fornication looking for virginity.

By Gypsy• 3 Aug 2009 09:06
Gypsy

It depends on your company Thejam, I know lots of Americans/Canadians/Europeans etc that have to find their own accommodation. In my case I get an excellent living allowance so it's not a big deal.

By Thejam• 3 Aug 2009 08:59
Thejam

ok not tax free but usually even before you reach the airport accommodation is made ready for the "European /american/ som indian expates, unless Gypsy does not fall in that category, then tough luck you have go live in a shack in industrial area.They say the rent has gone down but in reality it hasn't. what the people have done is split up the rooms into even smaller space and claim a two bedroom with sitting room to be a a 3 bedroom.I have visited places where it says in the add 2 bedroom and large sitting room.When i got the the sitting room was a corridor/hallway and the master was the original sitting room.So a 1 bedroom with large sitting was dubbed a 2 bedroom with hall.

i went to visit another where a makeshift toilet was made under the stairs and a dining room was turned into a kitchen. These people are splitting these villas to make more money not to reduce rents. So don't be fooled with these fake rent reductions.

By anonymous• 3 Aug 2009 08:41
anonymous

if u paid any deposit or post dated checks ,then u will face problem if not you can brake the lease nothing will happen

By Mandilulur• 3 Aug 2009 08:37
Mandilulur

Not tax-free for US citizens, thejam, not at all!

Mandi

By Thejam• 3 Aug 2009 08:33
Thejam

Wow Expats have to worry about rent and lease and so On I thought you lot came here obn a packeage with tax free salary, villa, pool , car and every thing else. Now I know I am not alone

By Gypsy• 3 Aug 2009 08:28
Gypsy

6.5K for a one bedroom is standard (or at least was when I started renting mine) see why I want to move now, I can get a villa for that!

Unfortunately it says on my lease that I can't sublet...

By Happy Happy• 2 Aug 2009 22:35
Happy Happy

http://www.qatarliving.com/node/532550

Salam

By SPEED• 2 Aug 2009 22:29
SPEED

for 1bedroom ? Oh may be you are living in The Pearl :-D

By anonymous• 2 Aug 2009 22:26
anonymous

2 K less than what she is paying currently is what she meant...Lol

She meant = Current Rent - 2000 QR

;))

Source:

- A study Conducted by FriedUnicorn - Vol I (September,1999)

By ARABADVENTURE• 2 Aug 2009 22:24
ARABADVENTURE

property market dropped so much? that's unbelievable! am i living in outer space? bloddy hell, why am i still paying 6.5k for a 1 bedroom unit....

By SPEED• 2 Aug 2009 21:40
Rating: 4/5
SPEED

to reduce the rent else you will be vacating the house as you are getting good offers in the market.

I did he same and my landlord reduced the rent since he knows that it will not be easy to find another tenant with the same rent.

Also there are several villas standing alone in my area.

Recently one of the Qatari who build 10 villas near my house, waited for more than 8 months to find customers. In the begning he was asking rent of QR. 18,000 for double story villa (3 kitchen, total 8 rooms incl maid room and 6 bathroom), he reduced the rent till 13,000/- per month despite that no one came.

Finally he made partitions in each villa and made 4 flats (2 spacious room, 2 attached bathooms and a full kitchen) and he rented for QR 4,000 each with water and electricity.

Same villa also has 1 bedroom and kitchen for QR. 3,000 incl. w/e.

Most of the villas are full now :-D

This way he is making good money but he had to spend few hundred thousands extra.

By QatariLady• 2 Aug 2009 21:33
QatariLady

Duplicate

By QatariLady• 2 Aug 2009 21:31
QatariLady

He can chase you legally if you don't pay for the remaining period.

The best option is to negotiate with him personally. Landlords usually use their reps as shields to avoid embarrassment. You can help IF you find a replacement for him.

By master-piece• 2 Aug 2009 21:23
master-piece

just give him the one month notice & leave.. he cant chase u leagally

By Bad• 2 Aug 2009 16:08
Rating: 5/5
Bad

find a new tenant here on QL. Advertise your place for rent to take up the remainder of the lease period. Get the new tenant to pay the equivalent amount of your security deposit and transfer his/her name to your rental agreement.

Of course if you're charming enough you may settle with half months rent etc. But if all else fails try the above.

By salman icon• 2 Aug 2009 15:12
salman icon

I hope all your problems resolve in a way that you want. Insha Allah

By Gypsy• 2 Aug 2009 13:00
Gypsy

I wish too FU and sadly no it isn't.

By michoo123• 2 Aug 2009 12:43
michoo123

U could give one month notice to the land lord or u could find some one who could afford the rent and can get cheque from the him / her that can be hand over to land lord and get your check back with the termination of contract. And could pay new check of the one u found. If nothing work last would be to talk to a land lord and negotiate.

By anonymous• 2 Aug 2009 12:41
anonymous

I wish all your housing problems evaporate in no time...woooooosh...;)

Btw...is that you on your avatar? Just curious.

Source:

- A study Conducted by FriedUnicorn - Vol I (September,1999)

By labda06• 2 Aug 2009 12:40
labda06

Did you talk to him in person?? Some things are better done in person...you cant bat your eyelashes over the phone!

By Gypsy• 2 Aug 2009 12:39
Gypsy

I know. I'm going to try and go in on Friday. However I know the best way to get to him is through his secretary.

By Gypsy• 2 Aug 2009 12:21
Gypsy

Ya I just spoke to him and he says I have to pay the remainder of the rent. :S That seems a bit steep.

By anonymous• 2 Aug 2009 12:18
anonymous

you can give him one month notification befor u leave, if it in your rental contract.

By Gypsy• 2 Aug 2009 12:07
Gypsy

That would be the smart thing to do Da. :P

By DaRuDe• 2 Aug 2009 12:00
DaRuDe

dont you have the contract ?

havent you read it??

By Gypsy• 2 Aug 2009 11:57
Gypsy

Good suggestion Hasmub. It's really bothering me that I can get a VILLA for 2000 QR less (and closer to my work to) then my apartment.

By HASMUB• 2 Aug 2009 11:56
HASMUB

You can negotiate with your landlord, i paid half month rent only for breaching the lease agreement, it is best rather than paying overpriced flat

By Gypsy• 2 Aug 2009 11:47
Gypsy

I know. But it's a pain to keep waiting. I'm going to loose my deposit anyway thanks to some painting my old roomate did...so that's not really a concern.

By britexpat• 2 Aug 2009 11:45
britexpat

You'll definitely lose your deposit and will probably get chased for the remainder of the rent..

why not just stay put for another few months..

By anonymous• 2 Aug 2009 11:45
anonymous

...and you can be out without hassles. One year clause is not legal.

Source:

- A study Conducted by FriedUnicorn - Vol I (September,1999)

Log in or register to post comments

More from Qatar Living

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Let's dive into the best beaches in Qatar, where you can have a blast with water activities, sports and all around fun times.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

This guide brings you the top apps that will simplify the use of government services in Qatar.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

this guide presents the top must-have Qatar-based apps to help you navigate, dine, explore, access government services, and more in the country.
Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

Stuck with a week-long holiday and bored kids? We've got a one week activity plan for fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in  high-end elegance

Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in high-end elegance

Delve into a world of culinary luxury as we explore the upmarket hotels and fine dining restaurants serving exquisite Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.