Dewa doubles security deposits for #flats, #villas

The security deposit for utility connection in Dubai has more than doubled with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) implementing a hike in the amount for both flats and villas, Khaleej Times has learnt. The deposit for activation of power and water supply to a flat has been hiked to Dh2,100 from Dh1,000 while that for a villa or house has jumped from Dh2,000 to Dh4,100. The deposit is refundable once the utility supply is disconnected.

The change in the security deposit amount has not been updated in the FAQ section on Dewa’s website yet. Dewa officials were not available for comments at the time of going to print. However, Dewa’s customer care contact centre confirmed the hike. An executive who answered the call said the hike was implemented by the end of September.

An Indian expatriate, who did not want to be named, said he paid the new amount of security deposit on October 9. “Though it is a refundable amount, I was shocked to hear there is more than 100 per cent increase in the security deposit now. I was told it was increased just two days before I made the payment. That made me feel even worse because had there been an announcement I would have made the payment a few days in advance.” said the man who is moving into a flat in International City.