What’s the new reality for owners in Bahrain’s collective housing? Clean up or go dark!

TDT | Manama                                                        

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Cracking down on lax standards in Bahrain’s collective housing, new regulations are shaking things up. From mandatory registrations to surprise inspections and even utility shutdowns for non-compliant landlords, the message is clear: clean up your act or face the consequences. This isn’t just bureaucratic shuffling; it’s a direct response to growing concerns about the living conditions of many labourers and residents.

Remember MP Maryam Al Dhaen’s queries to the Labour Minister on October 26th this year? She wasn’t messing around, and her questions about squalid conditions and lax oversight struck a chord. So, what’s the new reality for collective housing landlords? Buckle up, because it’s a multi-pronged approach:

Register or be dark

Forget renting out your place to a group without proper paperwork. The law now mandates registration with the municipality, complete with an engineer’s certificate, and regular safety checks. Think of it as a health and safety MOT for your property.

Safety first, always

Dodgy wiring and leaky plumbing are no-gos. The new rules demand good ventilation, lighting, and proper sanitation, ensuring your tenants don’t live in a health hazard.

Unregistered? You’re on notice

Don’t think you can fly under the radar. Authorities can now serve improvement notices, giving you a chance to get your act together. But ignore them at your peril, because...

The ultimate weapon: No water, no power

If you fail to comply, brace yourself for a cold and dark reality. The municipality has the power to cut off your utilities, leaving you scrambling to fix things up. This is more than just a new set of rules; it’s a major shift in how Bahrain tackles collective housing. Landlords, be warned: the era of turning a blind eye to subpar conditions is over. It’s time to prioritize safety, hygiene, and proper registration, or face the consequences. For tenants, it’s a breath of fresh air, promising a safer, more dignified living environment. The message is clear: Bahrain’s collective housing scene is getting a much-needed makeover, and it’s about time.