<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Service charges are not optional simply because an owner does not use the swimming pool, gym or other common facilities.

Dubai's jointly owned property framework requires owners to pay approved service and usage charges. These amounts fund areas such as building management, security, cleaning, maintenance, insurance, common utilities and reserve funds.

If an owner fails to pay, the management entity can issue the formal written notice required under the law. If the outstanding amount remains unpaid after the applicable notice period, the claim can become enforceable through the Rental Disputes Center's execution process.

Importantly, Dubai's jointly owned property law also gives the management entity a lien over a unit for unpaid service charges, and a unit generally cannot be disposed of until the relevant charges are settled.

This is why anyone purchasing an apartment in Dubai should check the building's approved service charges before buying.

Do not look only at the annual figure. Ask what it covers, review previous years where possible, and understand whether cooling or other expenses are charged separately.

For owners already carrying overdue amounts, DLD/RERA's Tayseer initiative also provides qualifying owners with flexible settlement arrangements through participating management companies.