Is it a common practise to pay deposit in advance for renting a flat in West Bay?
We are looking to rent an apartment in one of the towers and have been asked for a month's deposit in advance that the landlord would cash in, rather then keeping the cheque to end of term and would cash subject to default.
I am getting mixed messages on this.
I would appreciate any opinions on the subject.
thanks
anita
Harley60 & Baldrick2Dogs, It is common throughout the world with ONE IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE with Doha: after the rental period, the Landlord should pay interest over the amount kept and used for at least one year.
Of course it's common - just like every where else.
Remember, you can always hold back the last month's rent when you come to vacate the property, as the landlord already has a month's rent in advance from you as the deposit.
Landlords are now required by law to register the rental contract with the local rent committee....it would be nice to see deposits lodged/registered with the rent committee as well. We live in hope......
it is a common thing, not only in west bay every where in doha,
at least he ask for one month, some landlords ask for 6 months or 1 year in advance..
A deposit on rental property is common throughout the world, not just West Bay. Think about the scenario:
You give him a cheque.
You trash his apartment.
You leave the country.
He has a worthless piece of paper.
yes this is normal practice to ask for a month deposit. what's NOT is when the landlord asks for one year's rent advanced. that's when the landlord wants to run away with your money.