Altering a leased space is not only a design decision. Permissions, access and obligations come with it. This checklist covers what to confirm first. Legal and approval specifics must be verified for each property, so treat this as a prompt for questions, not as advice.
Who needs to approve the work
Usually the landlord, the building management and, depending on the property and scope, a relevant authority. Ask in writing what each requires and in what form.
What to confirm with building management
- Permitted working hours and rules for noisy work.
- Delivery, lift and waste arrangements.
- Any contractor registration, insurance or deposit required.
- Which services or systems you may and may not touch.
Lease obligations
Check what the lease says about alterations and about restoring the space at the end. Restoration obligations affect both what you build and what you budget.
Minimising disruption
Share the programme with neighbours through building management, protect common areas and plan noisy work for agreed times. Good relations with the building help every future request.
Records the tenant should keep
- Written approvals from the landlord and building management.
- Drawings, specifications and contractor documents.
- Handover records, warranties and care guidance.
Questions clients ask
Who needs to approve the work?
Typically the landlord and building management, and for some properties and scopes a relevant authority. Confirm each in writing.
How can disruption be minimised?
By agreeing hours, protecting common areas and notifying neighbours through building management.
How SADEED helps tenants
SADEED helps tenants prepare submissions and coordinate with building management, and says plainly that the approvals that apply must be confirmed for your specific property.
Planning alterations to a leased space?
Related guides
- The Fit-Out Approval Process in Dubai: A Practical 2026 Guide
- How to Plan a Fit-Out Programme Around Building Access and Working Hours
- How to Prepare a Useful Brief Before Requesting a Fit-Out Quote
- Design & Build programme
- Request a site visit
Last reviewed: October 2026. This guide is general information; requirements vary by property, scope and authority.