#COMPLETED: DUBAI ARCH TOWER, 40F Res, 153m, Plot G1 (JLT) [Archive] - Page 3

sirhere

June 24th, 2009, 10:17 AM

Thanks Arch Tower for not being Biased,

I would love to join the Owners mailing list. Will send you an email..

I am really disappointed with Aber due to the following reasons:

[A]
I was instructed by Aber to arrange with Asaad (from Aber) in order for me to inspect my Apartment before Hand Over which is on the 1st week of July.

Here is the results:

Today at 1:30 pm I went to the Tower and I was informed that I can't view my apartment since the contractor did not handover the apartments to Aber.

I walked through different floor, Ground floor, 1st Floor and it seems to me that the building is not yet ready with a lot of work to be done with the corridors, elevators, entrance, parking, pool, gym…alarm system ...ect

There was no Chiller working the Tower.

So I walked away and with a thought that the building is not yet ready.

[B]

Based on Aber instructions, I went to PDC to register and pay the Fees. And

Here is the results:

I was informed by PDC that they can not accept any registration or take funds.

Since the building is not ready and need to be tested and commissioned First, which is not done till now.

That PDC services is disconnected from the Building.

For Me

I will be only proceeding with the Handover process when the Building is ready for handover and the following are met:

1) That Aber along with PDC finalizes all the testing and Commissioning work and PDC connects the service to the building.
2) That I will be able to register with PDC directly not through virtual registration through Aber.
3) That I inspect my unit and find it ready to be occupied and with the AC working.
4) That all the construction, finishing and cleaning work are done in all the common areas and all facilities are ready to use.
5) Aber gets approval from RERA regarding the Maintenance Charges and send me the copy of the approved budget.
6) After that I will be paying all the fees and signing all the documents, pay dewa and get the keys

Markcrise

June 24th, 2009, 10:27 AM

Hey Guys,

I am very happy to find such Forum, finally I found a group to share with about our investment.

It is a great idea to have this mailing list.

Keep me posted guys.... may be will arrive to dubai by the end of the month. I will join your meeting.

Take care

Dear all Fellow Dubai Arch Owners,

I am an owner of one Bedroom Appartment in the 11th floor. I am trying to create an Emailing list for all Dubai Arch owners in order to exchange news and participate in solving our issues.

If you are interested kindly send an email to archtower@gmail.com with the following information :

Unit number
Name
Email
Mobile

Thanks Guys

AndyH

June 24th, 2009, 11:19 AM

welcome Mark and Sirhere.. what took you so long? :nuts:

look forward to seeing you all at the first Residents Association meeting..

kafkaz30

June 24th, 2009, 05:07 PM

welcome Mark and Sirhere.. what took you so long? :nuts:

look forward to seeing you all at the first Residents Association meeting..

Hi.

When are you planning this Residents Association Meeting.

AndyH

June 24th, 2009, 11:04 PM

I am not planning it as such, but one needs to be held within the first 3 months after handover to establish a RA and make decisions on the maintainence contractor and so on, or this is what I believe RERA stipulates now.
Aber should be facilitating the first one and then the RA will take over.

AndyH

June 25th, 2009, 08:38 PM

Mail from Aber

The RERA approved amount for the annual service / maintenance fee is AED 15.85/Ft².

However It was not specified whether this is the total, or whether DMCC charges would be in addition.. I expect the later.

Regardles of that, If my maths are correct, this is now +/- 170 AED psm and not 120 AED psm as stated in the contract, and the number we were always presented with so far! Quite a hike!

I did say we needed to be wary of this and ensure there were no last minute "surprises", and personally I am not happy with the announcement.

kafkaz30

June 26th, 2009, 07:54 AM

ahm2253

June 26th, 2009, 09:51 AM

AndyH

June 26th, 2009, 10:48 AM

Andy
I would assume that RERA approval does not over rule the contract agreement and if the contract specifies a service charge of Dh120 psm, then I assume that Aber would have to stick to this for the period specified in the contract , other wise they would risk a contractual dispute?

AFAIK its all subject to RERA approval, but in many cases RERA have revised the fee DOWN, and not UP.
For other buildings the fee has been challenged, RERA ruled that it should be lower and owners have received a refund.
Up until yesterday Aber were telling owners that the 120AED psm still stood.. so its bizarre that this has now gone up, what has changed?

personally i'll be calling and writing to RERA for their confirmation that they have approved this fee, just to be on the safe side. If you are concerned, please do the same.

Aber should also give us an itemised breakdown of the charges before we pay, and proof that these are RERA approved.

Dont forget, it is the role of the Residents Association to choose the contractor for maintainance. So if we are really not happy with the service received for this fee, we can find a new contractor.

On a side note, I had a look at the RERA website yesterday, Aber have been removed from the list of developers.. very strange. Maybe its being updated..

noir-dresses

June 26th, 2009, 06:25 PM

just saw the SC charges today, that includes everything

the AC is on at the communal areas

cleaning is under way

all the elevators should be working tomorow

AndyH

June 26th, 2009, 07:21 PM

I had a look, can verify that AC is on.

other +

Parking podium is coming on well by DMCC's contractor

the -

No GYM equipment,
no evidence of cleaning - inside and surroudings a major mess, and it looks unchanged since a couple of months
Outside of the structure itself is also untouched, cladding protection is not removed and generally needs a clean.

For the life of me I can not see how this can be ready for handover in 1 week. the general condition is the same as 3 months ago. What have the contractors been doing? IMHO It is not habitable currently.

keithtimes2

June 27th, 2009, 02:00 AM

hello all,
have been reading recent comments on the site and am also concerned about a few things:
Why is service charge being quoted in square feet when contract states size in meters?

Also, I have been told that the car parking space forms part of your total square footage / meterage. Is this true?

Has anyone been given an acurate square footage of their apartment and parking space?

We have been told to deal with DEWA by our ourselves, which is difficult as we live in Crete, Greece.
Does anyone know if we can pay DEWA by telephone or over the internet?

Also, does anyone know if the building will be staffed by handover date?

Will the monorail station by finished and operative, if not, does anyone know of a low cost, car rental company?

AndyH

June 27th, 2009, 08:25 AM

Has anyone been given an acurate square footage of their apartment and parking space?

for the apartment I had to convert from the meterage.. I havent measured a parking space, but they are the same ther world over.

We have been told to deal with DEWA by our ourselves, which is difficult as we live in Crete, Greece.
Does anyone know if we can pay DEWA by telephone or over the internet?

You can do it via an agent. a deposit will need to be paid and I do not expect that they accept a bank transfer. call them

Will the monorail station by finished and operative, if not, does anyone know of a low cost, car rental company?

Monorail will not be ready by handover, but there are many car hire companies. All the big names are here. Use teh Internet, Sir.

noir-dresses

June 27th, 2009, 11:12 AM

went to my apartment yesterday, every thing is clean, electricity, water, and air conditioning is all switched on.

will get my keys tomorow, and cant wait to spend first night in apartment.

hopefully elevators will be working

AndyH

June 27th, 2009, 12:35 PM

Noir. You are doing a good PR job for Aber, which is perhaps why you get keys PRIOR to handover while the other owners have to wait 2 weeks

But please do not try and deny the filthy condition of the exterior and parts of the interior.

Take a walk around my friend.

Tell us how you going to stay there with no lift.?

Interested in your view on the increased charges also. Have you paid and do you think this honestly represents good value?

ahm2253

June 27th, 2009, 12:56 PM

Take it easy Andy, I did not read in Noir posting that AC and electricity have been connected to his flat or that he would be moving in next week. I did read that he will take his key and wait for the work to be finished, the gym fitted, .......... and the workers to be out (and judging on the past progress, I bet you that will not be the case within three months). I assume that Noir is trying to save his time on any dispute on completion date. A reasonable assumption if he is paying the delay penalty?!!!!

AndyH

June 27th, 2009, 07:30 PM

I am quite calm thanks Ahm ;) But the forum needs to be balanced and one individuals rosy view of the project is not necessarily shared by all.

Those owners who do not live in Dubai need to have an objective feed of information, I know thats what I would want.

before you start, I have no benefit in trashing Aber whatsoever. I long to get into my own unit too. But currently I could not see me taking my family to live in this building in the current condition. As a customer, and with the best interests of other owners at heart, I am calling it as I see it.

To be fair to Aber, a large cleaning crew is working on the side, and I suspect that they are working top down. You can see from the photos of the communal areas that they havent been touched yet. Certain areas stink and will attract vermin if not sorted out soon. The contractors also havent finished, as there is work to be done beyond the scope of a clean up crew.

Come on, Aber! Handover is in 2 days and all this could have been put right by now.

thanks

http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/34/p6270001.jpg (http://img198.imageshack.us/i/p6270001.jpg/)

http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/9937/p6270002.jpg (http://img269.imageshack.us/i/p6270002.jpg/)

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/6970/p6270004.jpg (http://img15.imageshack.us/i/p6270004.jpg/)

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/9716/p6270005.jpg (http://img3.imageshack.us/i/p6270005.jpg/)

http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/8878/p6270006.jpg (http://img222.imageshack.us/i/p6270006.jpg/)

Recreation floor..

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/9106/p6270007.jpg (http://img15.imageshack.us/i/p6270007.jpg/)

http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/1886/p6270008.jpg (http://img269.imageshack.us/i/p6270008.jpg/)

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/6285/p6270010.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/p6270010.jpg/)

http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/5151/p6270011.jpg (http://img23.imageshack.us/i/p6270011.jpg/)

lobby

http://img395.imageshack.us/img395/1075/p6270009.jpg (http://img395.imageshack.us/i/p6270009.jpg/)

cleaners... sorry, it was dark

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/5265/p6270013.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/p6270013.jpg/)

chefdude

June 28th, 2009, 08:13 AM

Noir Dresses was only trying to point out that the end of the long journey is very much in sight, he is just excited to be finally getting his keys wouldn't you be?

I have helped out many non-dubai based owners with rental and management of their properties, and having been there at the start of many of the towers in JLT I can tell you that they are never perfect on handover day.

The windows will likely be cleaned within 3 months of handover, it is common practice to do this on a quarterly basis unless its a hotel.

The communal gym and swimming pool are never operational until approx 2 months after handover.

The elevators will keep protective materials on the doors and exteriors for a while so they don't get excessively damaged when the first batch of residents / tenants and furniture arrive.

Moving into a brand new building days after handover is a bit of a trial make no mistake, it is not a posh hotel where everything should run like clockwork. However if like me you had to do it to save on wasting rent elsewhere then be prepared for a little hardship until things settle down.

It is very important however to keep a close check on the developers / management company to ensure they keep up on what they have committed to deliver. If there is rubbish rotting around areas of the building, make sure they have it removed, health hazzards like that are simply not acceptable. If you ask for something to be done chase them 2 - 3 times a day so they know they can't forget about things and you that haven't forgotten either!

AndyH

June 28th, 2009, 10:48 AM

From Aber:

Please note that the sum mentioned includes the master community service fee
(DMCC charges) and all other services within the whole development.

In light of this the 15.85 is on a par with other developments and therefore within reasonable expectations.. I am still asking RERA for confirmation that it has been approved by them, while I am sure it has of course.

AndyH

June 28th, 2009, 10:50 AM

ahm2253

June 28th, 2009, 10:50 AM

Please allow me chefdude to disagree with you, this is not the image I know of the market here and definitely is not the image I would like to spread. You only need to visit to find out that the tower is not ready to be habitable in a comfortable way unless and as mildly you have put it, the residents have no objection to living in a work site for the next 2 – 3 months assuming AFM will not lax and pass on the buck to the builders who are under contractual obligations for the maintenance.
I just wonder why the completion date of 29/6/2009 was set by AFM; Contract obligations, mortgage payment issues, World economy ……? And why the simple things like removal of the outside cladding has not been done so far? Please AFM, get your act done right, it is now an image issue. Like wise, I would not move my family in and rub shoulders with the workers until the tower becomed habitable, so why should I receive the key?

chefdude

June 28th, 2009, 12:20 PM

^^
I can only tell you what I have experienced first hand, and also heard from many others in different buildings in other areas via the forum. If you don't want the inconvenience then delay your hand over for the first couple of months until they have found their feet.

Thamera

June 28th, 2009, 04:26 PM

I agree with chefdude and Andy.

Also ahm 2253 has a point. But i guess we need to look at the big pic

EVERY BODY in the house stop fighting. Lets get the key and move on.

Andy i appreciate you cross cheking with RERA. I already spoke to ABER on this and they have already published it on their website.

Archless in Dubai

June 28th, 2009, 07:19 PM

Thanks, Thamera.

Does anyone in the forum read Arabic? Would be good to understand what the RERA document on the Aber website actually says, in particular 1.1 and 1.2 and what these mean in terms of Andy's earlier questions about whether the SC amount of AED 15.85 includes DMCC (i.e. whether it is really all inclusive).

Cheers

I agree with chefdude and Andy.

Also ahm 2253 has a point. But i guess we need to look at the big pic

EVERY BODY in the house stop fighting. Lets get the key and move on.

Andy i appreciate you cross cheking with RERA. I already spoke to ABER on this and they have already published it on their website.

Archless in Dubai

June 28th, 2009, 08:07 PM

Andy,

Sorry, just saw your message of 10.40am today so forget my last. Still be helpful to have an English version though.

Thanks, Thamera.

Does anyone in the forum read Arabic? Would be good to understand what the RERA document on the Aber website actually says, in particular 1.1 and 1.2 and what these mean in terms of Andy's earlier questions about whether the SC amount of AED 15.85 includes DMCC (i.e. whether it is really all inclusive).

Cheers

ahm2253

June 28th, 2009, 08:58 PM

AndyH

June 28th, 2009, 09:24 PM

Transaltion for the charges article is:
1. The overall service and maintenance charges is Dh15.85 per square foot and is made up as follows:
1.1 Service and maintenance and other charges: (12.99) Dirhan per square foot
1.2 Water and electricity charges: (2.86) Dirham per square foot

thanks for the translation Ahm, its rather puzzling though...

I was expecting a break down thus

1) charge for the apartment
2) charge for communal areas
3) DMCC community charge...

the "total" service charge should include a cost for all these and cover cleaning, security, landscaping, repair, lighting of communal areas etc.

So, Why are we paying 2.86 psf of our own apartment for electric and water? surely thats why we pay DEWA?

I am not disputing the charge as a whole, but prefer some transparency as to what it does include and why. In due course we will get this anyway as a RA. But as AFM is intending to run the maintenance themselves, they do have an interest in providing a quality and competitive service.

Markcrise

June 29th, 2009, 07:41 AM

Regarding the service Charges :

One of my Friends who is an Arabic speaker, read it and insured that this doesn't include anything related to Master developer / Community charges this is only related to the Building.

Aber also Published the breakdown of service charges and I noticed that the Parking size is calculated as a percentage of the Unit sq foot for Example

if the unit size is 1000 then your parking is 200 so you need to pay 15.68*1200

If your unit size is 1000 then your parking is 100 so you need to pay 15.68*1100

Regardless whether you have one parking or two !!!!!

the parking sqft should be fixed and multiplied by how many parking you purchased multiplied by the service charge rate.

thanks for the translation Ahm, its rather puzzling though...

I was expecting a break down thus

1) charge for the apartment
2) charge for communal areas
3) DMCC community charge...

the "total" service charge should include a cost for all these and cover cleaning, security, landscaping, repair, lighting of communal areas etc.

So, Why are we paying 2.86 psf of our own apartment for electric and water? surely thats why we pay DEWA?

I am not disputing the charge as a whole, but prefer some transparency as to what it does include and why. In due course we will get this anyway as a RA. But as AFM is intending to run the maintenance themselves, they do have an interest in providing a quality and competitive service.

Markcrise

June 29th, 2009, 07:48 AM

Correction ... I mean:

Parking area is 20% of the unit area

if the unit size is 1000 then your parking is 200 so you need to pay 15.68*1200

If your unit size is 500 then your parking is 100 so you need to pay 15.68*1100

Regarding the service Charges :

One of my Friends who is an Arabic speaker, read it and insured that this doesn't include anything related to Master developer / Community charges this is only related to the Building.

Aber also Published the breakdown of service charges and I noticed that the Parking size is calculated as a percentage of the Unit sq foot for Example

if the unit size is 1000 then your parking is 200 so you need to pay 15.68*1200

If your unit size is 1000 then your parking is 100 so you need to pay 15.68*1100

Regardless whether you have one parking or two !!!!!

the parking sqft should be fixed and multiplied by how many parking you purchased multiplied by the service charge rate.

Imre

June 29th, 2009, 08:18 AM

service charges of the parking ? this is totally rubbish, next time they will ask SC of the lake,sea or fresh air? :)

AndyH

June 29th, 2009, 08:22 AM

here is that link

http://www.abergroup.net/images/DUBAI%20ARCH%20TOWER%20SERVICE%20CHARGES%202009.pdf

http://www.abergroup.net/images/Break%20Up%20of%20Service%20charges%20apartment%20wise.pdf

and here is a rough translation of the RERA document

1. Service and maint. Is 15.85 psf to be broken down as follows
1.1 service and maint. 12.99 psf
1.2 DEWA 2.86 psf
2. The following remarks to be taken into consideration
2.1 Management charges
2.2 Cautionary amount / petty cash
2.3 Infrastructure amounts
3. AFM need to manage the owners, and common areas until the first meeting of the Owners association
4. AFM needs to spend the money only on the service and maint. They are supposed to cover the agreed services.
5. AFM need to put the amounts received into a special bank account and commit to not spend it unless approved by RERA
6. All owners need to pay full charges mentioned until the first meeting of the Owners association, after the meeting they should be accepted or modified by the owners
7. Note: this is a temporary approval to ensure the services are covered until the first meeting of the OA, which should be done with 3 months after handover. AFM need to submit a budget for the service charges.

indeed this does not mention DMCC or other charges.. but appears to cover all costs in building. I agree that paying a full rate charge for a parking space is unacceptable!

kafkaz30

June 29th, 2009, 10:01 AM

Markcrise

June 29th, 2009, 12:59 PM

Not only paying for the parking ( but parking area is calculated as 20.3 % of your unit area

If the Parking for a studio of an area of 377sqft with one parking bay of 76sqft area, then why is for the same praking bay but for 1 BR appartmernt it is 174 sqft.

Does One bedroom with one allocated parking take a bigger parking bay more than the double??? what about the penthouse??? they calculate the parking bay with an area of 2BR apartment lol!!!

here is that link

http://www.abergroup.net/images/DUBAI%20ARCH%20TOWER%20SERVICE%20CHARGES%202009.pdf

http://www.abergroup.net/images/Break%20Up%20of%20Service%20charges%20apartment%20wise.pdf

and here is a rough translation of the RERA document

1. Service and maint. Is 15.85 psf to be broken down as follows
1.1 service and maint. 12.99 psf
1.2 DEWA 2.86 psf
2. The following remarks to be taken into consideration
2.1 Management charges
2.2 Cautionary amount / petty cash
2.3 Infrastructure amounts
3. AFM need to manage the owners, and common areas until the first meeting of the Owners association
4. AFM needs to spend the money only on the service and maint. They are supposed to cover the agreed services.
5. AFM need to put the amounts received into a special bank account and commit to not spend it unless approved by RERA
6. All owners need to pay full charges mentioned until the first meeting of the Owners association, after the meeting they should be accepted or modified by the owners
7. Note: this is a temporary approval to ensure the services are covered until the first meeting of the OA, which should be done with 3 months after handover. AFM need to submit a budget for the service charges.

indeed this does not mention DMCC or other charges.. but appears to cover all costs in building. I agree that paying a full rate charge for a parking space is unacceptable!

AndyH

June 29th, 2009, 02:35 PM

On a general point, you could anyway argue that the size of your unit is irrelevant as it makes no difference to the communal areas. A flat fee for all units would be a fairer way. Its not as if anyone is going to clean the inside of your apartment for this!

We can only look forward 3 months, get quotes from EMCO and the like and attempt to find a better deal for the owners.

p.s. I would be expecting a fully airconditioned and marble tiled parking pay for this price, with ambient lighting to boot! :nuts:

JAZZA

June 29th, 2009, 03:46 PM

Hi ALL

I have had a look at the charges and they seem to be a little high. I hope this includes the DMCC.

Ive calculated for a studio at the moment the annual charges for landlords are just under 10k per year. ( Service/Maintenance + PDC Standing charge only)

This seems high for a studio!

I wonder what everyone thinks?

Thanks

sirhere

June 29th, 2009, 04:18 PM

Dear all,

Came to my knowledge that :bash:

So the plan is to charge the whole Tower for consumption then will divide the total bill one the owners based on square foot.

In other words whether your unit is vacant or not or whether you use the AC or not you will be charged.

:bash:
:ohno:
:bash:

Hi ALL

I have had a look at the charges and they seem to be a little high. I hope this includes the DMCC.

Ive calculated for a studio at the moment the annual charges for landlords are just under 10k per year. ( Service/Maintenance + PDC Standing charge only)

This seems high for a studio!

I wonder what everyone thinks?

Thanks

ArchTower

June 29th, 2009, 04:25 PM

Our Group is Growing......

GENUINE Owners Please you are invited to Join

Dear all Fellow Dubai Arch Owners,

I am an owner of one Bedroom Appartment in the 11th floor. I am trying to create an Emailing list for all Dubai Arch owners in order to exchange news and participate in solving our issues.

If you are interested kindly send an email to archtower@gmail.com with the following information :

Unit number
Name
Email
Mobile

Thanks Guys

Hi ALL

I have had a look at the charges and they seem to be a little high. I hope this includes the DMCC.

Ive calculated for a studio at the moment the annual charges for landlords are just under 10k per year. ( Service/Maintenance + PDC Standing charge only)

This seems high for a studio!

I wonder what everyone thinks?

Thanks

Markcrise

June 29th, 2009, 04:38 PM

Sorry Andyh, I disagree with your point since larger area means more people living in which means more consumption to elevators, pool, gym, common area and also sewage collection.......ect

But parking should be of a fixed square footage per parking bay not a percentage of your unit area... that is really ridiculous.

Hope that they will add this marking areas (square footage) in the tittle deed.

On a general point, you could anyway argue that the size of your unit is irrelevant as it makes no difference to the communal areas. A flat fee for all units would be a fairer way. Its not as if anyone is going to clean the inside of your apartment for this!

We can only look forward 3 months, get quotes from EMCO and the like and attempt to find a better deal for the owners.

p.s. I would be expecting a fully airconditioned and marble tiled parking pay for this price, with ambient lighting to boot! :nuts:

AndyH

June 29th, 2009, 06:33 PM

Mark,
Agree. While its academic anyway (as nothing is going to change) the number of bedrooms is likely to determine number of occupants, and therefore the use of facilities.. but floor space itself will have nothing to do with it. ;)

AlexL

June 29th, 2009, 08:07 PM

Hi all,
I just join the group. I am the owner of the apartment in the Dubai Arch Tower as well.

The maintainence charge imposed by AFM is just way too much!
I own apartment in another tower in JLT and we are paying 17.3 dhs/sqft manitainace fee for whole year including AC charge (no extra chagre for AC usage).
It is NOT acceptable to include parking bay footage in the maintainance fee as well!

So lets all get together and say NO to AFC's charges!!!

Regards

noir-dresses

June 30th, 2009, 08:04 AM

I got to agree that SC charges for the parking is the stupidest thing I've ever heard, and I mentioned that to Samir, hope he realizes it's not acceptable.

Some good news is the elevators are working, saw alot of cleaning crew in the building, and there slowly working there way down to the lobby.

Still dont know how people will park there cars because it will take another month to have any kind of access.

Just talked to the contractor today, and they will keep fixing any faults. I found some cracks in my walls, and thats because AC was turned on a few days ago. I'm sure you guys will have the some cracks aswell, so ask for that to be fixed.

When I recieved my keys, another person got his keys that same day. When I came to the building late last night I even saw that some one was moving furniture already. I think the cash buyers are getting there keys first.

Well its a great feeling being able to stay at your own place in Arch.

AndyH

June 30th, 2009, 08:38 AM

chefdude

June 30th, 2009, 09:58 AM

To be honest I am often amazed at how developers here seem intent to keep on shooting themselves in the foot.

If there is a delay in processing documents between them and Tamweel why not take a proactive stance and say "Hey our clients have been severely delayed for over a year now in getting in to their apartments. Lets cover the cost of DEWA for a few weeks so that they can at least move in to a places with electricity A/C and water and then they can transfer it to their own names in a month or so"

A small bit of common sense and goodwill can go an awful long way to mend bridges!

Ali_A

June 30th, 2009, 10:13 AM

Bad news for Tamweel buyers, they have told me that there is a delay with the lands department and that registration certificates and deeds will not be available for "several more weeks"! Without this we can not get a DEWA connection.
Tamweel are also witholding payment of the final amount to Aber until they get the deeds.. mortgage payments will not start though until all this is sorted.

Another point.Has anyone been offered an orientation by Aber? I know some developers prepared an info pack and gave owners a tour and explanation of the facilities, but I have heard nothing on this from Aber.

Thank you Andy for your feedback. This is not good news at all for Tamweel buyers. I was really hoping to sort this out by July and get on with my life.

Whoever who got their keys, was there a hand-over meeting and some sort of “info pack” as Andy explained? Or it was just “these are your keys. Good luck!!!”? I know some people who moved in Discovery Gardens. They got a proper hand-over pack with all details of the building, security and services mentioned.

We need to set up the Owners Association ASAP and get things under our control. Looks like AFM is in a mission of bankrupting us and getting some of their losses through us.

ahm2253

June 30th, 2009, 05:10 PM

If the workers are not out of the tower (Noir), and if cracks repair (and the like) are now to be done (Noir) and If there is a month delay to get any access to the parking (Noir) and if Tamweel are withholding payment to AFM until they get the deeds (Andy), and if there is several weeks delay in getting the registration certificates from the land department (Andy) and if this means that DEWA will not connect until the deeds are received (Andy); then what does the completion date mean? Start money flow into AFM accounts from the buyers through payment of the exaggerated SC? And why should we do that? And why we do not tell AFM that your completion date is not being met by you and hence is not acceptable and hence they are liable for the consequences until a proper completion date is specified. Offcourse this does not concern those who did receive their keys as effectively completion and handover has been done

Archless in Dubai

June 30th, 2009, 07:38 PM

I see the SC split on a unit by unit basis has come off the Aber website. Do we think this means they may be revisiting their decision to place a SC on the area of the parking space? What do we think?

JAZZA

June 30th, 2009, 09:52 PM

Hi Archless,

I can see that this has been taken off aswell, I hope there is a reduction in charges. Its obvious keeping the car park area clean and maintenance would be alot less compared to hallways lobby etc.

I think AFM were trying it on, and now are revising there service charges.

Lets see what happens..... we shall watch this space.

JAZZA

I see the SC split on a unit by unit basis has come off the Aber website. Do we think this means they may be revisiting their decision to place a SC on the area of the parking space? What do we think?

AndyH

July 1st, 2009, 10:01 AM

The document is still online, only the link was removed from the main page..

http://www.abergroup.net/images/Brea...ent%20wise.pdf

I have saved a copy for future reference.

EDIT: It has NOW been removed from the website...

n.b Not wanting to put the cat among the pidgeons, But I have now received in writing from RERA that:

"The estimate budget for this year was approve 15.85 owners shall pay there service charge

15.85 * you unit area that does not include parking size'

I have therefore asked for advice on the matter..

AndyH

July 1st, 2009, 02:31 PM

good news first:

it seems as though Tamweel dont know what they are talking about as AFM just sent me a copy of the Deed and BCC, so I should be ok for a DEWA connection now.. not before time too!

bad news, they are still asking for the same CS including the parking.. lets see what happens to that one over time

Thamera

July 1st, 2009, 02:52 PM

Andy,

Looks like you are the first Tamweel guy to get it unless someone else in here has also got it.

COOOLLLLL

With regards to the parking charges i checked with RERA and also AFM. What information i got is that the charges are on the areas that are sold which is also parking it states that in the contract as well:ohno:

AndyH

July 1st, 2009, 02:55 PM

AndyH

July 1st, 2009, 03:19 PM

Sorry for the forum spam today guys but more news coming in..

Rera have apparently asked Aber to remove the doc and to charge owners on the Unit area only.. \o/

andy

Ali_A

July 1st, 2009, 07:52 PM

Rera have apparently asked Aber to remove the doc and to charge owners on the Unit area only.. \o/

Hi Guys,

I also received an email from AFM with a copy of the title deed and BCC attached. I am also a TAMWEEL buyer and when I called them last time, they told me this could take another week. I am happy to know that this is done.

They have also asked for SC including parking area. Please update if you hear anything about the parking SC. My hand-over date is this coming Monday.

noir-dresses

July 1st, 2009, 10:07 PM

From what I saw, all the apartments have electricity, water, and AC connections already, its all working in every unit. I just think Aber wants every owner to pay up what they have already paid for therm, and put it in there own names before they give you the keys. As I already mentioned, all the elevators are working 24-7.

Except from parking, complete cleaning, pool, jacuzzi, gym, sauna, the building is up, and running, at least liveable inside your apartment.

I know there cleaning there way down from the top, my place is on the 31st floor, and every thing was clean as a whistle. I dont know what floor exactly there on now, but they will get to the lobby soon at this tempo.

Telephone, and internet connections I dont know yet ????

I hope every one gets into there place very soon, good luck

JAZZA

July 2nd, 2009, 03:46 AM

Hi guys,

Just to add to Andys comments, I found this info on jlt.ae web site.
Stating clearly there is a seperate and probablly less charge for car parking.

Thanks All

15 What Service Charges would I be liable to pay for the unit I have bought at Jumeirah Lakes Towers ?

Master Community Service Charge will cover the maintenance of the roads, lakes, waterfront, landscaping etc, and services such as sewerage and garbage collection.
The Building Service Charge will cover the maintenance of the tower and its immediate environs (within the tower plot limits).
The Car Parking Garage Service Charge will cover maintenance of the parking within the shared parking garage in each Cluster or Trio and the common areas within each Trio.

Sorry for the forum spam today guys but more news coming in..

Rera have apparently asked Aber to remove the doc and to charge owners on the Unit area only.. \o/

andy

chefdude

July 2nd, 2009, 07:28 AM

As regards the Shared podium parking, the charge levied against that is part of the DMCC master developer service charges (last year this was AED 2 per sq ft). If you have a parking space outside the building in the podium why should you pay extra service charges for it?

I would say you Arch owners have an excellent case with RERA to get the SC for parking space revoked. Once a few of you have registered this complaint with RERA they should approach Aber to put them straight. Stand up for your rights!

AndyH

July 2nd, 2009, 07:46 AM

One of the difficulties here is that we have not been provided with a breakdown of the SC. Just a 15.85 for all.. so what is the DMCC portion of this? It is indeed calculated at a different rate so it should be specified separately.

for the parking, Property Law #27 artical 22 (and indeed the whole law) is interesting in this case. It specifies that the SC fee:

"is calculated in correspondence with the space of the Unit out of the space of the jointly owned property"

Key word being unit, and not unit + parking.

http://rpdubai.ae/rpdubai/fg?f=DaFD6buDFunTim9885A7Nu9lzfurwomL1TSA5bIPpx4DJ4MOD%2BAUocES9OIpyFZo

noir-dresses

July 2nd, 2009, 10:30 AM

very good news guys, just had a good chat with Samir, and this is his writen reply,Hey ,

I have discussed the matter with RERA. I have given them the budget with
apartment area and parking area, as they asked me to charge on sellable area
and they gave me the approval signed and stamped, the fact being that the
parking was also sold.

Now they are saying Oops don't charge for the parking area, only for the
apartments size. So I told them fine but you approved it first and now you
are making us look bad.

Nevertheless we are no more charging for the parking area. We have no issues
working with RERA. We will comply to all matters.

But the customers have to understand this.

Regards,

Samir K Patni
General Manager

Ali_A

July 2nd, 2009, 12:47 PM

This is excellent news Noir, thank you for your feedback.

Have you already moved in? has anyone else moved in?

JAZZA

July 2nd, 2009, 03:29 PM

Hey Noir,

Thanks for the quick reply. good news

yeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaa.........

noir-dresses

July 2nd, 2009, 07:14 PM

This is excellent news Noir, thank you for your feedback.

Have you already moved in? has anyone else moved in?

Hi Ali, glad we cleared some things up, good thing Samir is a reasonable person.

I would'nt really call it moved in, just got my keys once I paid every thing AFM asked. I was in Dubai only five days, only got to sleep in my place one night because the elevators were not working thanks to Chefdude lending me an air mattress to sleep on. After waiting four and a half years for my place, atleast I got the chance to sleep there one night.

Im back at the Croatian coast enjoying the cooler weather now, but Dubai is always on my mind.

All of you guys will get to enjoy Arch more than me, and Im sure you'll keep me updated with some pics.

Again good luck to every one with hand over's, and all the best

AndyH

July 7th, 2009, 06:49 AM

Hi All,

Update from my side. I got the keys on Sunday and both Samir and the handover team were very helpful. I found some cracks in the wall which were fixed the same day. Not all lifts are working yet and those that are were pretty shabby, and the underground parking was still closed off which will make moving difficult, although the service managment team assure me that these will be removed next week.

The airco, water and electric are on in all units, and cleaning is still in progress.

Major gripe is the interior fittings, especially the bathroom, which has no storage and very poor lighting and finish.. the sealing of the bathtub was amaturish at best for example. Its a real shame that a bit more was not spent on the fittings as these will now have to be gutted and redone to bring it up to even an Emaar type standard. Which would be just about acceptable.

The Kitchen will also have to go before too long as the marble is badly stained and the fit of the units is unsightly.

These things are not a surprise as I have seen the unit earlier, but again, a bit more time and investment would have made these units much more attractive. Lesson learned for the next project I hope.

Thamera

July 7th, 2009, 11:14 AM

Hi All,

I got my keys. As Andy mentioned Samir was helpful and so was the team. good we dont have to pay for parking anymore.

Just an update i was there and the parking is already open now we can park near the elevators.

Elevators were all working also , yes they are shabby but i think they will not remove all that protection till all furnite will move in so thats gonna be a a while.

Even there were cracks on the wall which the team started to rectify while i was there.
they appear as the Aircons were not on for a while before but now i dont think it will happen as they ac's are up and running.

noir-dresses

July 8th, 2009, 11:00 AM

congradulations

kafkaz30

July 11th, 2009, 06:09 AM

Hi. Any other updates from those who have moved in? How about the gym, swimming pool, etc?

AndyH

July 11th, 2009, 05:27 PM

Hi. Any other updates from those who have moved in? How about the gym, swimming pool, etc?

Gym and pool are still work (or cleaning) in progress.. no equipment delivered yet either.
All the lifts seem to be working now, basement carpark was being cleaned today, and a few people seem to have moved in. Not too much else to report atm, my furniture is going in tomorrow, and in the process of cleaning I have noticed quite a few small defects which I shall need to report. Chipped bathtub, floor tiles, rusty bathroom fittings etc. I'll take those up with AFM

noir-dresses

July 13th, 2009, 11:05 AM

now lets push for the pool to open up ASAP, a little relief to cool us down in this hot weather

kafkaz30

July 17th, 2009, 09:30 AM

now lets push for the pool to open up ASAP, a little relief to cool us down in this hot weather

I finally got my studio yesterday too. Found a few flaws though.

My kitchen's main island Granite slab was heavily stained with some chemicals which caused it to get discoloured. A cabinet had warped in the kitchen as well.

Showed these few things to the Aber guys, and they promised they would rectify the problems. So I'm pretty satisfied with the overall finish though.

The pool and gym areas will take another month before they are to be handed over. In fact, the manager at the property who I spoke to said the entire building's final issues, i.e, swimming pool, gym, removal of exterior cladding plastic on the buildings exterior, final cleanup of all floors, etc, would be completed within a month. So, as a worst case scenario, I think everything would realistically be completed, functional, and ready by the end of August.

The Aber guys at the site are very helpful.:)

Plus the Lake Almast East (facing the Almas Tower) should be completed by the end of this year hopefully. Things look to be going at a reasonable rate in the Lake works too.

On the downside....Its humid as hell in Dubai nowadays!:ohno:

noir-dresses

July 20th, 2009, 10:20 AM

I expected alot more on this thread considering every body is moving in, or getting there keys. There has to be some thing new, or some kind of news. Im coming down to Dubai again on the 28th of July, and Im going to push for the pool, gym, sauna, terrace to open ASAP. Its going to be alot better once the lobby is finished.

AndyH

July 20th, 2009, 12:08 PM

What to say? I think I am one of the few living there, judging my the number of cars in the parking there looks like only a dozen or so people living there. I am certainly the only one of my floor.

Whatever you do, dont pick up your keys, turn off the AC and leave the country, you place will be full of consensation and if no one from AFM has a key they can not take care of any flood, fire, other issue that may occur in your unit.

The cleaning is still ongoing, as well as fixing various issues in the building, as to be expected.

The AFM staff on site and the security are very helpful which is welcome.
I still have some issues with my place, but the only solution might be to just replace fittings etc as they are not really up to standard. Yesterday I was changing a light bulb in the living room ceiling lamp and black rusty water came running out of the light fitting.. WTF! where did that come from? I was lucky not to be electrocuted.

in general I am very pleased to be in and enjoying the unit, I just wish that some more care, attention and expense was taken with the interiors..the bathrooms are the worst, hardly any light and a really poor finish with the grey matt tiles and plasticy feel to the fittings.

The space in the kitchen for a washing machine is too small, I need to have a support bracket for the worktop removed before I can think about squeezing an appliance in there. Someone needs a new tape measure.:bash:

Storage is a huge problem.. with 2 people in a 2-bed unit there is not enough space for our clothes let alone basics like an ironing board, vacuum cleaner, suitcases etc.. why no small storage cupboard was designed in to units? Cant do much about that though without eating into the living space.

If anyone else is already in, or visiting, and wants to pop 'round for a cuppa. PM me :P

noir-dresses

July 20th, 2009, 11:42 PM

AndyH

July 21st, 2009, 07:48 AM

thanks Andy, Chefdude turned off my AC after I left. I was also thinking about storage space, and the best I came up with was to buy a washer/dryer in one, then pay some one to make storage space above it in the laundry room.

at least you have a laundry room! :D

btw, I do expect that with anything new there will be a number of issues to work out within the first weeks. I just hope that any reoccuring problems will become familiar to AFM so they can address them pro-actively when more people move in.

noir-dresses

July 21st, 2009, 12:10 PM

Andy Im also thinking of gutting my place, and doing it all over again. If interested we can go and check out some places that sell ceramic tiles for the floors, and mosioc tiles for kitchen/bathrooms. Thats the first thing that has to be done if you want to do your place rite. I have alot of experience in this field, after that is done the rest is easy. You can use existing kitchen, all you have to do is spice it up a little like prepare it for built in appliances, get rid of that ugly pole, buy new granit top with cut holes for cook top, and sink, put in a better sink, and faucets ( Grohe ), you can even change the cabinet knobs aswell. Once you spice up the existing kitchen with good tiles, colours that go well together, put in some nice stainless steel appliances it will be alot better. If your willing to spend the extra buck, just order a whole new kitchen.

Bathrooms are easy as well, gut them, all the walls, pluming, and electricity is done already, then just retile them with better mosioc on the walls, and ceramic on the floors. The only thing Im going to change is in the master bedroom, I'd rather have a big shower, and no bath tub so I'll have to water proof it 1 1/2 meters high first so tiles can be laid on the floor, with big crystal glass shower door. You can use extisting sink, toilet, or up grade, its your choice. Now the ceiling is ugly to me, there's no way Im leaving an armstrong ceiling, that will be done as well to look good, and be accessible if needed, I already have a few ways to do that.

About lighting, Im a Murano freak, and thats the only way for me unless I find some good exotic eastern lighting there.

Even the sockets can be changed if you wish.

After that you repaint to your wishes, and your set to furnish. Curtains can do wonders if you get the rite style, and obviosly colours to match. Add some pictures, and plants to make the place feel alive.

AndyH

July 21st, 2009, 01:32 PM

good ideas Noir, we are thinking along the same lines.

Bathroom - the ceiling has to go, possibly it can be further elevated too if the AC unit gives enough clearance. At the same time more lights can be added, as the one spot we have at the moment is a joke. Its not even aligned with the mirror and the bathrooms are so dark and grey with those tiles. One bath will be removed and a shower cabinet fiitted, a cabinet will either be built around the sink to create storage, or better yet, replace the whole suite.

Kitchen - the ceiling extractor is run from a central fan and doesnt work, the extractor hood over the cooker has no external connection. So its only filtering and circulating air. Both of these need to be fixed. The units are not bad, and can stay for while until I have done the bathrooms, as I just bought white goods to make the place habitable and am not about to dump them directly. Long term, a total new kitchen will be in order as this one will no doubt fall apart after a couple of years.

Floors - again, grey tiles are not to my taste (and some are already chipped). I wIll probably go for laminate wood floors and adjust the doors to fit.

Sockets and switches are ok actually, I have seen worse. in Goldcrest the unit was even covered in loudspeaker jacks on the walls, at eye level! Not very aesthetic. But longer term its something to think about.

btw, for anyone wanting to get the TV running, get a satellite decoder and program in the following:

1) NileSat
2) Hotbird
3) ArabSat 2b

Its working fine.. I have some spare cable if anyone needs it.

noir-dresses

July 23rd, 2009, 12:00 PM

how many english channels can you get andy ? is it as good as a du tv channel package ?

accman

July 23rd, 2009, 12:11 PM

Hi every one!

I am selling the 1 BRH apartment at 23rd floor, 1214 sq.ft area. at the corner.
For AED 685 / sq.ft. Any one interested? please call me 050 9235034 Muhammad.
For Cash.

Thanks

AndyH

July 23rd, 2009, 01:16 PM

how many english channels can you get andy ? is it as good as a du tv channel package ?

well, total is around 1000 channels. and its for free after you buy the decoder. So no DU deposit and monthly fee.

you do get more english channels on the basic DU package, but you pay for it.

On Sat you have the usual BBCW, CNN, business news channels, Euronews, MBC1,2,3,4,Action. I havent found any other significant ones, but of course you can choose to upgrade and get all the sports, movies, BBC Prime, Lifestyle etc etc.

There are even more options once you hook up your Set top box to an Ethernet connection (provided it has the input), which will give more channels than DU for a better price.

we can discuss further when you are over ;)

accman

July 23rd, 2009, 06:10 PM

I am selling the 1 BRH apartment at 23rd floor, 1214 sq.ft area. at the corner.
For AED 685 / sq.ft. Any one interested? please call me 050 9235034 Muhammad.
For Cash. I need cash...

noir-dresses

July 24th, 2009, 12:37 PM

how about internet andy, did you get connected yet ?

AndyH

July 25th, 2009, 07:43 AM

how about internet andy, did you get connected yet ?

I wish.... DU are still forecasting September.
Also, GSM signal is very bad in the apartments. Not sure whether thats based on the height or just the usual Dubai construction methods, as its been the same everywhere I have stayed outside of Villas.

noir-dresses

July 25th, 2009, 01:02 PM

our building might get connection sooner than we think cause we have about 8 or 9 guys from du living in our building already. hey du guys guys ( neighbors ) do your magic !!!!!!!

fadi75

July 26th, 2009, 09:57 AM

Hi, I moved last Thursday, the conditions for a newly delivered building are so far satisfactory therefore it will need 2 to 3 months for things to be completly in order

Aber guys based on the first floor are very friendly & supportive

Andy u right, bathroom finishing could have been better, as for mobile signal I have no problem with it and central dish is working fine.
A/C working well
common area lighting & A/C are ok

Parking bays are badly sized and tight..

AndyH

July 26th, 2009, 10:48 AM

Hi Fadi

congratulations!

Agree about the parking.. very poorly planned, as most of them are unfit for the larger car/SUV, and if you can park, you cant open the door!
The central podium parking spaces are much more reasonably sized (when they open that section) the only disadvantage being that they do not have direct elevator access to the tower, you have to walk from the podium.

With so many spaces crammed under the tower its always going to be a little awkward, Gold Crest is the same, but the spaces there were all good sizes at least.

one other problem to watch out for are the fit of the balcony doors. Many of them are letting hot air blow in which is causing condensation and cooling problems. As well as some noise and dust. Mine were re-fit and sealed yesterday and it seems an improvement, as the condensation build up around one of the AC vents was so bad I already had mold starting to form and a damp wall.. So look out for it and get it fixed.

I believe Aber are already dealing with this pro-actively now that they realise the problem.

Some clean up seems to have started on the exterior as there were 2 guys in the cradle outside my window this morning!

noir-dresses

July 30th, 2009, 09:13 AM

hi andy, I arrived two days ago, my contact number is 055-231-9615, give me a call, any one else on the forum is welcome aswell to call me

AndyH

July 31st, 2009, 05:33 AM

hi andy, I arrived two days ago, my contact number is 055-231-9615, give me a call, any one else on the forum is welcome aswell to call me

check your PMs

JAZZA

August 3rd, 2009, 11:09 PM

How long are you down for?

hi andy, I arrived two days ago, my contact number is 055-231-9615, give me a call, any one else on the forum is welcome aswell to call me

noir-dresses

August 4th, 2009, 10:25 AM

Hi Jazza, will be here for a while.

Latest news in the building is that there filling up the pool with warm water, so should be ready maybe tomorow.

They will take the interior protection out of four elevators next week, so that should spice up the place a little more.

Jacuzzi is filled already, the waters still a little misty a guess untill the chemicals do there thing.

When I ask the Aber staff when will the lobby, and gym be done, they say soon, so that could basically mean any thing.

We should get allocated parking as soon as possible.

Guys lets get together and start forming some kind of tennant committee

noir-dresses

August 5th, 2009, 09:02 AM

the pool is full of water now, looks good.

also forgot to mention the elevator floors have granit

JAZZA

August 5th, 2009, 12:45 PM

hey noir,

What room are you in?

I will be down in 2 weeks, it would be nice to say hello..

Pm Me if you like

thanks

Jazza

the pool is full of water now, looks good.

also forgot to mention the elevator floors have granit

AndyH

August 5th, 2009, 03:18 PM

I would really appreciate some privacy glass around the pool and gym. On a floor with the Aber management staff and numerous labourers moving about, it seems rather inappropriate to me that this is so exposed.

any plans to change the current design that we know of?

noir-dresses

August 6th, 2009, 06:02 AM

we could also insist on that Andy, good idea.

some more good news, looks like I managed to talk them into giving us a snooker table, table tennis, and even a theatre room with sofa, and tv.

Jazza, Im in apt # 3101, but just call me first to make sure Im there.

some bad news I found out is the terrace belongs to the commercial section, so basically that is his roof. that is really the only place we can sun tan out side, hope they dont make a big fuss about it, cause we're screwed.

lets meet again andy, and discuss the tennant commitee, I got a few owners who gave me there contact details already, there all for it

noir-dresses

August 6th, 2009, 06:06 AM

talked to them about this issue andy, and it will be taken care of, good stuff

I would really appreciate some privacy glass around the pool and gym. On a floor with the Aber management staff and numerous labourers moving about, it seems rather inappropriate to me that this is so exposed.

any plans to change the current design that we know of?

noir-dresses

August 6th, 2009, 06:36 AM

more good news, we might even have darts, wireless in the facilities areas aswell.

lets meet andy tonight and see how we would set things out in the different rooms.

AndyH

August 6th, 2009, 07:05 AM

Thanks for the update on the facilities.. so where is this "rec room" going to be?

very unfortunate about the terrace, and it shows a certain of lack of understanding of residents needs. But lets hope they make an arrangement with the tennant there.

Lift to the high floors were out of order today, so I started my day with a tour of the stairwells. lets hope this isnt goign to be a regular issue.

noir-dresses

August 6th, 2009, 07:24 AM

we have a few options to pick from andy, like I said lets meet later on so we can see what is best for us, and we can forward our that to aber. We're better off doing the picking than them if you ask me.

yeah, I had to walk down to the 23rd floor aswell and take the other lifts, bummer

another question, I hooked up my satelite reciever but did'nt get CNN, did you manage to get it, and on what satelite ?

Thanks for the update on the facilities.. so where is this "rec room" going to be?

very unfortunate about the terrace, and it shows a certain of lack of understanding of residents needs. But lets hope they make an arrangement with the tennant there.

Lift to the high floors were out of order today, so I started my day with a tour of the stairwells. lets hope this isnt goign to be a regular issue.

Archless in Dubai

August 6th, 2009, 01:26 PM

Guys,

Glad all seems to be going well and hope you are enjoying your new pads.

Just one (probably irrational) thing occurred to me when I heard about the granite on the lift floor. Whilst it may look nice and is certainly hardc wearing, granite is extremely heaving and a slab on a lift floor probably equates to about 150kg - 200kg.

Obviously this is not a problem if the lift was designed by the manufacturer to have granite on the floor but may be an issue if Aber just decided to tart the lifts up by sticking some granite down. Let's face it... this is exactly the sort of thing that would happen in Dubai.

As I say, possibly me just worrying but may be worth one of you guys who lives there checking with Aber. Better safe than sorry.

All the best.

we have a few options to pick from andy, like I said lets meet later on so we can see what is best for us, and we can forward our that to aber. We're better off doing the picking than them if you ask me.

yeah, I had to walk down to the 23rd floor aswell and take the other lifts, bummer

another question, I hooked up my satelite reciever but did'nt get CNN, did you manage to get it, and on what satelite ?

noir-dresses

August 6th, 2009, 01:45 PM

hi archless, just checked with the staff who are in charge of the lifts, and they told me the granit is normal on the floor, still has its normal capacity with it installed.

so when you coming by ?

well finally took a swim in the pool today, felt great, and tanned on the terrace.

we asked the aber staff to turn on the electricity to the sauna's, so that should be working

jacuzzi should be running next week

noir-dresses

August 7th, 2009, 09:03 AM

Hi guys, got some more good news. I was told that all gym equipment, pool table, darts are arriving on thursday, so life is getting better, and better in the arch as far as facilities go.

noir-dresses

August 8th, 2009, 07:45 AM

latest news is there getting the jacuzzi ready for operation

noir-dresses

August 9th, 2009, 07:28 AM

sauna's are up n running

noir-dresses

August 9th, 2009, 08:17 AM

we also have a Du inspection today, let's hope it goes ok so we can get an earlier connection to the building

Imre

August 9th, 2009, 01:59 PM

I also inspected the building today, looks nice , still need a big facade cleaning :)

09/August/2009

Dubai Arch

http://i32.tinypic.com/t9wci8.jpg

http://i29.tinypic.com/2whjrqq.jpg

http://i25.tinypic.com/s2z41x.jpg

http://i32.tinypic.com/2hpmy53.jpg

http://i25.tinypic.com/332udy1.jpg

Imre

August 9th, 2009, 02:01 PM

09/August/2009

Dubai Arch, pool, jacuzzi

http://i25.tinypic.com/2nsxiea.jpg

http://i32.tinypic.com/mb1seq.jpg

http://i28.tinypic.com/2pt9req.jpg

http://i30.tinypic.com/s1ux3s.jpg

http://i25.tinypic.com/34ik0wl.jpg

Imre

August 9th, 2009, 02:03 PM

09/August/2009

Dubai Arch, view

http://i31.tinypic.com/vd1k79.jpg

http://i25.tinypic.com/15qzx8x.jpg

http://i28.tinypic.com/2cn8p06.jpg

The Engineer

August 9th, 2009, 03:58 PM

I also inspected the building today, looks nice , still need a big facade cleaning :)

09/August/2009

Dubai Arch

http://i32.tinypic.com/t9wci8.jpg

Great update again! Looks like parts of the facade need to be replaced.

SHANJONES

August 10th, 2009, 12:18 PM

AndyH

August 10th, 2009, 02:46 PM

Dear all,

Thank you for the updates and photos. I just wondered if anyone could give me some advice. I'm currently in the UK for the forseeable future and own an apartment on the 6th floor. I have no Dubai PO Box address or mobile number. How do I get my DEWA bills? I've already e-mailed them on this matter but had no response! Also, any idea why Aber want me to switch on my air conditioning? I would have thought that if the balcony doors are properly sealed there shouldn't be a problem? You are all doing a fab job with getting the Aber guys sorted..thank you so much :-) I'm going to try and get over again before Xmas to see the tower for myself post cleaning, pool etc

leave the AC on, its a centrally cooled building so if there is a build up of heat in any part of it there will be condensation, mold etc.. not nice to come home to.

You can subscribe to the DEWA online service and they will email you your bills, then you can pay them online with a credit card. So actually you dont need the hard copies of the bill. Aber should be providing us with a PO Box I thought.. has anyone asked about it?

andy

noir-dresses

August 10th, 2009, 04:45 PM

most of the gym equipment arrived today, aswell as table tennis, and darts

noir-dresses

August 11th, 2009, 07:35 AM

the cardio part of the gym is good, but the weights section is garbage, far from a state of the art gym, very disapointed.

SHANJONES

August 11th, 2009, 09:41 AM

Thank you Andy. Much appreciated.

noir-dresses

August 17th, 2009, 06:26 AM

latest news is that DMCC has finished, and opened up the gate to the parking spaces so you can access B2 threw to B3-B4

DMCC should turn on the out side lighting to the concourse soon

They are still working on the jacuzzi

Lobby is still not finished, waiting to polish the marble

AndyH

August 23rd, 2009, 07:08 AM

last week a contractor for DU vistied and performed a "final inspection" and stated that service should be available in "2 weeks". However, on calling DU yesterday they are now saying 14th November! Whilst this is far from a fixed date I imagine, this is a real dissapointment and DU are missing quite some new business by not getting the building online sooner.

sam.w.mir

August 23rd, 2009, 05:39 PM

Just been there, was finally pleased that the project is finished and the tower is good and the management team is great too, also met some residents all good. :)

AndyH

August 26th, 2009, 06:38 AM

Guys

as a solution to our internet problem, at least one of the 2 service providers here offer a pre-paid 3G service which I now have working. I dont want to advertise for them on this site, but if you need help to find or install it send me a PM.

andy

Imre

August 28th, 2009, 12:37 PM

28/August/2009

Dubai Arch

http://i25.tinypic.com/2lken8i.jpg

http://i28.tinypic.com/xbmv55.jpg

noir-dresses

August 31st, 2009, 06:46 PM

any body know how repair, and buffing of lobby is coming along ?

noir-dresses

September 4th, 2009, 12:02 PM

our thread is soooooo dead, come on guys lets gets some action here

noir-dresses

September 12th, 2009, 01:03 PM

lobby ?????

Imre

September 12th, 2009, 08:54 PM

12/September/2009

Dubai Arch at night

http://i28.tinypic.com/9h0v1d.jpg

http://i30.tinypic.com/33w1s8k.jpg

http://i26.tinypic.com/35n3jt5.jpg

http://i31.tinypic.com/11w7xck.jpg

bizzybonita

September 14th, 2009, 09:02 PM

lobby ?????

here random of pixx from developer website :cheers:

http://www.abergroup.net/aber_fm_dubai_arch_tower_image_gallery.asp

new joiner

September 17th, 2009, 05:13 PM

Hi, Guys:

I am looking for one bedroom apartment for myself and my budget is 680K all in. If anyone intend to sell the apartment, kindly let me know. Cheers!

JAZZA

September 29th, 2009, 11:47 AM

Hi Guys,

I visited Dubai in mid August to settle my account with Aber, Dewa and PDC. Unfortunatley I was only there for 6 days and these departments took a very longtime, often requiring 2 or 3 visits to complete 1 task. I also needed to open a bank account which took 3 visits. Due to all this unnessesary time delays I was not able to meet any of my Neighbours as I wished to, I hope everyone is well and I hope to be back in Dubai soon in 2010.

Lastly I used Aber Rental office to rent my sudio out and they managed to find someone within 2 weeks, the rental at the moment is 40,0000 to 45,0000 Aed un furnished. Let me Know if anyone has had better rental returns, thank you.

Kind Regards

Jazza

noir-dresses

September 29th, 2009, 06:26 PM

you did good, I saw some studio's go for 35-39 k, 12 cheques

keithtimes2

September 30th, 2009, 12:25 PM

DU connection registration now available from IBN Battuta or Media City offices.
We finally will have internet in the building!

noir-dresses

October 1st, 2009, 10:05 AM

Hello Keithtimes2, how's it going ? Please check your mailbox.

JAZZA

October 3rd, 2009, 04:05 PM

Hi Noir,

Thats pretty low rent do you know the company that was doing these rentals? also 12 chqs is harsh I managed 4 cheques which is reasonable I think.

Thanks

Regards

Jazza

noir-dresses

October 3rd, 2009, 05:39 PM

Hi Noir,

Thats pretty low rent do you know the company that was doing these rentals? also 12 chqs is harsh I managed 4 cheques which is reasonable I think.

Thanks

Regards

Jazza

they were talking about it in the management office down stairs, i managed to rent my place for 90 k four cheques untill the neighborhood starts looking better in a few years. hopefully the visa issue will get better aswell

AndyH

October 6th, 2009, 01:58 AM

Further to Aber's last notice, has anyone actually managed to order a DU service yet? Im back from holiday next weeka nd it will be the first thing I do, provided they are actually accepting the applications (they now have 29 Nov on their homepage!)

thanks in advance

AndyH

October 14th, 2009, 06:56 AM

for the record DU are delivering service to Arch now, mine went in yesterday :banana:

kafkaz30

October 17th, 2009, 05:35 AM

Hi All.

Can anyone be kind enough to post some latest pics of the progress on the Lobby, gym, etc...just a general update on our building?

Tks.

noir-dresses

October 17th, 2009, 08:18 AM

did DMCC turn on the lights at the drop off zones, and I hear the building sign is up to, pics of that aswell please

AndyH

October 24th, 2009, 02:27 PM

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/3470/pa240139.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/pa240139.jpg/)

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/5599/pa240138.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/pa240138.jpg/)

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/944/pa240137.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/pa240137.jpg/)

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/5159/pa240135.jpg (http://img8.imageshack.us/i/pa240135.jpg/)

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/8195/pa240133.jpg (http://img8.imageshack.us/i/pa240133.jpg/)

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/6234/pa240132.jpg (http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa240132.jpg/)

noir-dresses

October 24th, 2009, 02:37 PM

AndyH

October 25th, 2009, 02:49 PM

Thank's Andy, we need some table's, plant's in the lobby. Didn't they have a lamp aswell in the render ???

Are the light's on at night ?

The granit floor look's alot better now.

Are the elevator's looking good now ?

the outside lamps pictured are on at night now, the elevators are cleaned up and look good, although 2 still have protection for moving items in.

The Lobby basically hasnt changed since you were over other than a couple of reject chairs from Saba2 being tossed into the reception.. But its clean at least.

On a negative note, my apartment is developing cracks all over the walls and ceiling. I shall be reporting it into Aber once I made a full list of defects.

keithtimes2

November 11th, 2009, 02:36 PM

Just received this and it appears to be in credit, however the rates seem higher than anticipated. Does anyone know if we have indeed paid for the year or will we be receiving monthly bills? Can someone please explain how this payment system works?:ohno:

fadi75

December 29th, 2009, 08:35 AM

Hello Everybody,

6 months already from the handover and there is many things to discuss

Anybody know who are the members of the owners associations and what are the activities being made so far?

noir-dresses

December 29th, 2009, 12:06 PM

There is no owners association yet, but would like to know what's going on with that aswell. We should of had one by now.

fadi75

December 30th, 2009, 12:44 PM

Hi Noir-dresses,

Then lets work on it , I am based here in dubai, what about you, any other owner on this board who is based in dubai?

noir-dresses

December 30th, 2009, 01:07 PM

Hi Im not in Dubai, but all you need is my signature. I know Andy lives in the building, he can help you.

fadi75

December 30th, 2009, 03:02 PM

Thanks, will do after the weekend

HAPPY NEW YEAR

:banana::cheers::banana::cheers::banana::cheers:

:banana2::pepper::banana2::pepper::banana2::pepper::banana2::pepper:

AndyH

December 31st, 2009, 02:35 PM

Guys

OA is long overdue, i think this may have been delayd because the STRATA law is not announced yet, but regardless,Aber could still have setup an interim committee.
I have a few points i'd like to raise also, including the long awaited clean up of the cladding, adding some recycling facilities, parking allocation and why security allow people to park one car over 3 spaces (!) :ohno:

anyway, i'll be chasing Aber next week and see whats going on.

HNY all!

andy

noir-dresses

December 31st, 2009, 03:36 PM

Thanks Andy

Dubaiite

January 17th, 2010, 09:11 AM

Hello

I am looking for a studio and a 1 bed to rent in the Arch Tower if there is anybody who would like to rent their property please connect with me. Would appreciate it.

Thanks - Masuma

kafkaz30

January 18th, 2010, 04:18 AM

Hi All,

Been a while since there were any new posts. I was wondering if there had been any new updates about our building? Can someone post some new pics?

Our forum has gone real quiet as of late!

fadi75

January 18th, 2010, 08:16 AM

Hi,

Surprisingly DEWA included in the bills of Jan 2010 housing fees for landlords of 0.5% from the purchase price , while verifying with Dubai municipality they said that now all tenants and landlords should pay even if they are in freezone areas.

As per my knowledge a certain sum from the yearly maintenance fees paid to the developer for the building maintenance & public areas charges is to be dedicated for the community charge which means that now we are paying twice the same charge.

Anybody has an idea about this matter?

AndyH

January 18th, 2010, 08:42 AM

No housing fees on my DEWA bill.

I spoke to the office about the OA, they seem to have difficulties in progressing this as RERA required detailed floor plans in PDF format, and Aber do not have them.. Once they have converted their Auto CAD plans into PDF they can register properly and start the OA.

now, it sounds to me as if this is something that should have been done pre-handover and should not be blocking us having an OA, but thats what I was told last week.

The only changes to the building are that the B1 podium parking has been painted and numbered, these are the DMCC parking and not Abers.they didnt do the Ground floor yet (roof of the podium). There seems to be a few plants around too. :P

Thamera

January 18th, 2010, 10:04 AM

No housing fee on my DEWA as well!

Im sure it has to be a mistake. SC does not include DM charges and if it did then it would be free for our tenants also.

I followed the OA with the head office directly. Andy you are right about the drawings but the further info i got is that the drawing were submitted during pre registration and now RERA comes back and says provide in PDF format.

And also these need to be uploaded one by one in the software provided by RERA for which the servers are dwn most of the times.

God Bless

AndyH

January 18th, 2010, 12:11 PM

And also these need to be uploaded one by one in the software provided by RERA for which the servers are dwn most of the times.

God Bless

hah! after trying to apply for Emirates ID online, I can believe that actually.

thanks

andy

JAZZA

February 22nd, 2010, 12:01 PM

Hi there

Has anyone heard of new title deeds being issued?

If so what is the situation?

Thanks

noir-dresses

March 28th, 2010, 05:31 PM

Our thread is a little quiet lately.

Just interested, does any body know if the jacuzzi is up, and running ? Last time I was there they were still fixing the problem.

kafkaz30

April 5th, 2010, 04:01 PM

Hi All,

Been a while since there were any new posts. I was wondering if there had been any new updates about our building? Can someone post some new pics?

Our forum has gone real quiet as of late!

Hi...I got this letter from my tenant who moved into my apartment in the Dubai Arch last August. He just informed me he's not renewing the contract. Reason being the following:

" The building is fine (very few breakdowns) and the people working there (both management and watchmen) are kind and extremely helpful. The problem is Nakheel: not much progress seen over the past 8 months there, and they're officially broke and downgraded since the news came out in Q4 2009. This means the entire JLT area is likely to continue to look unfinished for quite some time (understand not walkable for years).

Considering the information above and after talking to people around me I have decided to pay a little bit more for a better lifestyle. JLT would have ended up being a fantastic location by now if the master developer had fulfilled its promises with only a minor delay."

Pisses me off to no end that even though I've got a great building, apartment, location, and view...what can I do about the entire JLT area???? Who's finally gonna come through and deliver what was promised??

AndyH

April 6th, 2010, 08:44 AM

I really dont think anyone would have moved into JLT in the last year expecting it to be finished Soon. He possibly just found something else and gave that as a reason?
I am also happy in Dubai Arch, the construction next door does not disturb, and although it is very slow, every week I see some gradual improvements and finishing off in the JLT area.

that was my response on the JLT thread.

Having an unfinished community area in Dubai is no surprise to anyone. Look at the turmoil in Springs now.
At least in JLT there are no traffic issues, easy access to SZR, Metro, Malls and local retail outlets are there, and increasing in number.

If I wanted something "finished" I wouldnt have moved to JLT in the first place.

yes, I would love to see this place get done, but its not affecting my quality of life at all.

per our Security team, the Arch is 70% full now. Yet they are managing to keep it clean and providing a reasonable service to occupants. My only complaint is when this parking allocation and OA will be sorted.

kafkaz30

April 12th, 2010, 02:08 PM

that was my response on the JLT thread.

Having an unfinished community area in Dubai is no surprise to anyone. Look at the turmoil in Springs now.
At least in JLT there are no traffic issues, easy access to SZR, Metro, Malls and local retail outlets are there, and increasing in number.

If I wanted something "finished" I wouldnt have moved to JLT in the first place.

yes, I would love to see this place get done, but its not affecting my quality of life at all.

per our Security team, the Arch is 70% full now. Yet they are managing to keep it clean and providing a reasonable service to occupants. My only complaint is when this parking allocation and OA will be sorted.

Hi Andy.

Thanks for the feedback. I agree that my tenant may have found something better and that's all. Still doesn't change the fact that he will be vacating in end of July. Any idea what the going rental rate for a studio facing Lake Almas East on 22nd floor around end july should be?

AndyH

April 12th, 2010, 02:32 PM

If I am honest I try not too look at prices these days, it would only depress me.:ohno:
A colleague has been looking recently and reckons 40-45k! Maybe better to ask in the JLT thread as it gets more views that this one.

good luck with that

AndyH

April 19th, 2010, 04:19 PM

this has been posted around the tower. good job too I say, the place looks better already!

http://img688.imageshack.us/img688/8836/p4190221w.jpg (http://img688.imageshack.us/i/p4190221w.jpg/)

sawadika75

May 10th, 2010, 04:07 PM

AndyH

May 11th, 2010, 06:41 AM

Hi All,

I just read that the OA of the buidling next to ours had reduced the service charge from 13.47 to 10.77 (Dhs/sqf)

The rate of 15.7 we pay is high comparing to the next door building and unfortunatly still no OA for the building which is a very weird action for the developer who annouced that an OA should be in place soon

Let me know what do you think ?

Do you mean Indigo Icon? thats a commercial tower which may have something to do with it, but yes, the OA is long overdue and updates from Aber are sadly lacking recently.

sawadika75

May 11th, 2010, 07:18 AM

Hi,
The full article is http://www.business24-7.ae/companies-markets/real-estate/indigo-tower-s-service-charges-slashed-by-20-2010-05-04-1.239929

Please note this:

"According to the IOA 2010 budget, facilities management fees dropped almost halved to Dh1.3 million (Dh3.76 per square foot) from the previous year's budget of Dh2.482m (Dh7.29 per square foot) approved by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (Rera).

Building insurance almost halved to Dh45,000 from the previous year's budget of Dh84,375 (Dh0.25 per square foot). Dewa costs have reduced to Dh600,000 from Dh775,000, while the Palm District Cooling (PDC) charges fell to Dh1m (Dh2.94 per square foot) from Dh1.3 million (Dh3.66 per square foot)."

AndyH

May 11th, 2010, 07:51 AM

Ahh that is the residential one further down the road. interesting! Lets hope we will also see the benefit eventually. In a couple of months we will have to pay for the second year.

sawadika75

May 11th, 2010, 09:05 AM

Great, but then we need all to raise one voice at that time, we would require an audit report for the last year and the budget for the next year in addition to the reduction that can be made as 15.77 per sqf is not acceptable anymore especially in the current market. That would have been much easier if the OA was in place!

nothing against Aber, they always dealt professionally and in complete transparency and there is no doubts about their intention but it is our right as owners in DAT to have an OA and know where our money is spent and how can we reduce liabilities

noir-dresses

May 11th, 2010, 06:47 PM

Porcello

May 11th, 2010, 07:03 PM

When I read that article regarding how OA lowered service charges in Indigo Tower, I sent it to Arch management to give me their view on it, and this was my reply for those who are interested to know.

Well,

As per the link its very easy to state the charges the association wants but
will that pay the bills.

It's already mentioned that they are short from last year and they still
have to recover that.

Another thing is that they have slashed the consumption charges of DEWA PDC
insurance etc. How can they do that? Just by striking it out from a piece of
paper is very easy...but what about the actual bill when they turn up.

None of these providers have reduced their rates....so how is the
association expecting to collect less and still pay the actual?

There is no way it is possible as the actual will be coming and they will
find out they collected less and when the provider will disconnect the
services....they will know.

Also the first year was under warranty now the annual maintenance will kick
in for lifts parts pool steam sauna etc etc how in the hell the charges will
go lower.

Good luck to all in indigo

What your views on this reply ?

It's unbelievable how people talk without knowing the topic!

First, Indigo is not on its second year of operation, but on the third which means that last year was also without warranty.

Second, they are short from last year because last year (like the first year of operation) the maintenance fee was seven (7!) AED per sq. ft.

Finally, they never said they would reduce the maintenance fees from the utilities (although it's possible to cut something also from there), but from other items of the developer proposed budget which overall jumped from 7 AED per sq. ft. of the first two years to almost the double. The items that allow a reduction are for instance the management fee charged by the developer (usually 10% of the budget), the FM contract and (yes) the insurance.

Note that Indigo association has NEVER reduced the maintenance fees; since nobody accepted to pay the third year fees requested by the developer, the developer had no choice to finally help the formation of the association and ask them to review the new budget. The maintenance fees have indeed increased from last year (not decreased) but not as much as the developer would have liked.

austdec

May 14th, 2010, 05:53 AM

Porcello has said it nicely - it is amazing how people will talk absolute drivel without any knowledge of the topic they are talking about.

As a member of the Indigo Tower Committee I'd be happy to spend some time with Dubai Arch management and inform them how they can stop ripping-off the owners of Dubai Arch :)

When I read that article regarding how OA lowered service charges in Indigo Tower, I sent it to Arch management to give me their view on it, and this was my reply for those who are interested to know.

Well,

As per the link its very easy to state the charges the association wants but
will that pay the bills.

It's already mentioned that they are short from last year and they still
have to recover that.

Another thing is that they have slashed the consumption charges of DEWA PDC
insurance etc. How can they do that? Just by striking it out from a piece of
paper is very easy...but what about the actual bill when they turn up.

None of these providers have reduced their rates....so how is the
association expecting to collect less and still pay the actual?

There is no way it is possible as the actual will be coming and they will
find out they collected less and when the provider will disconnect the
services....they will know.

Also the first year was under warranty now the annual maintenance will kick
in for lifts parts pool steam sauna etc etc how in the hell the charges will
go lower.

Good luck to all in indigo

What your views on this reply ?

kafkaz30

May 19th, 2010, 05:20 PM

HI.

Can anyone point me to a good real estate firm who would be able to help me rent out my studio in the Arch. It will be vacant by end of July.

Tks.

noir-dresses

May 19th, 2010, 07:14 PM

HI.

Can anyone point me to a good real estate firm who would be able to help me rent out my studio in the Arch. It will be vacant by end of July.

Tks.

050-104-8274, ask for Nasir, the company is called Good Deal Dubai. They rented my place in Arch in a matter of days. They did a lot of rented apartments as well in Arch.

Tell Nasir Eddie gave you his contact info.

kafkaz30

May 21st, 2010, 01:28 PM

050-104-8274, ask for Nasir, the company is called Good Deal Dubai. They rented my place in Arch in a matter of days. They did a lot of rented apartments as well in Arch.

Tell Nasir Eddie gave you his contact info.

Thanks so much, you think asking for 50K, 4 cheques will fly? My studio is on a high floor and has a full view of Lake Almas East...

kafkaz30

May 21st, 2010, 01:34 PM

sawadika75

May 23rd, 2010, 10:25 AM

The Below has been emailed today, hence mid of June is a holiday period were most of the people canno't attend !!!!

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/7757/30630031.jpg (http://img443.imageshack.us/i/30630031.jpg/)

kafkaz30

May 26th, 2010, 03:22 AM

Is there actually even a Dubai Arch Tower Committee in the first place, or an Owner's association? I'd imagine if there was, then why wouldn't they want to spend some time with this gentleman who has already successfully negotiated with the Indigo Management?? If there is a committee, then can someone in a position of authority arrange this face to face?

I live abroad, but own an apartment in the Arch, or else I would have made an honest effort to try and get this gentleman's help. Even though I've heard great things about Aber facilities management, but I'm sure the exhorbitant charges can come down to a reasonable level somehow.

I read this article related to this topic above, and I think everyone should read it.... Looks like things may change now!

Home Owners in Dubai get power over maintenance fees.

http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100526/NATIONAL/705259810/1010

Do we have an official Home Owners Association yet?

AndyH

May 26th, 2010, 07:25 AM

Do we have an official Home Owners Association yet?

The first meeting is on the 13th June and then we will set one up

shazz

June 6th, 2010, 05:15 PM

Any one in the forum who are owners of their property but have given it to ABER to manage the property i.e to manage and find tenant on behalf of them.

If so what are your views as to the PDC Monthly Capacity Charges? I was under the impression that my tenant would be obliged to pay for that but just read the contract and it is clear that the tenant is only liable for consumption charges. I probably was a bit naive.

Anyway I would be most grateful for views and opinion from other owners on this matter regarding PDC Monthly Capacity Charges>

kafkaz30

June 7th, 2010, 09:54 AM

Does Nasir have a land line number?

AndyH

June 7th, 2010, 10:57 AM

Is anyone living in Arch using the building satellite TV service? I have been having problems with this (channels becoming unavailable and quality issues) for several weeks and wondered if anyone has had the same, or knows how to fix it.

cheers

Thamera

June 9th, 2010, 10:03 AM

AndyH

June 9th, 2010, 10:08 AM

hey guys,

Does any one in here know what is happening on the OA meeting

I got the mailer does anyone know how the OA going to be formed?

I would like to be the board member.. but how much time do i have to put it in and also how does one get elected?

Andy U the Man im sure you could answer this...

Kindly give me some or rather all in here some insight

T

Hi Thamera,

when I applied on the OA meeting invite I ticket the box to say I wanted to be on the committee. I imagine it will be a formal quarterly meeting with some requirement for more regular meetings and activities (obtaining quotes from other service providers etc) outside of that. I havent been on an OA before, but I am sure this will become more clear on Sunday.

Will you be there? if you want to meet before hand and discuss this PM me.

Andy

noir-dresses

June 12th, 2010, 02:07 PM

Hi Andy H, could you please check your PM, thanks.

AndyH

July 26th, 2010, 02:16 PM

Guys

If any Dubai Arch owners have not received an email from our Owners Association in the last few days, please PM me with your valid email and unit numbers, and ill have you added to the distribution list.

There are important developments of which you need to be aware.

andy

noir-dresses

August 12th, 2010, 05:30 PM

AndyH

August 14th, 2010, 01:57 PM

Waiting_Forever

August 14th, 2010, 04:15 PM

I paid my new service charges last week, how many of you have also taken care of that ? I wonder if we have any dead beat's in our building who don't pay ?

For those who are in the building, is every thing functioning normally ever since we have the new OA ?

Also, did Aber fix the damage we had on the building's facade ( cladding ) ?

I paid mine a while ago.

Only one elevator is working on my floor. My flat is on higher floors (higher than 27th) and it’s not really possible to use the stairs. I checked with the new Owners Association and they told me it is Aber who are trying to sabotage the owner association. Aber says because there is no maintenance contract with the elevator company and due to this there is no repairs happening. I’m really confused and don’t know what to do or who to believe.

Has anyone else got the same problem?

AndyH

August 15th, 2010, 02:01 PM

I am on the high floors too, same issue. While we probably have to wait until this incredibly unprofessional handover from Aber to the OA is over, I have reported this to the Civil defence to see if they can do anything.

Risking our safety to try and prove a point? come on Aber, shame on you.

Thamera

August 18th, 2010, 10:29 AM

AndyH

August 18th, 2010, 11:55 AM

Hey,

Wait a minute guys ! If the tower is handed over to the OA....how come ABER is still responsible!

And how come we still have no final budget yet! Has the OA or i dunno who not finalized it.

If the elevators are not working due to no maintainence contract then how come the OA has not entered into one.

Isnt ABER out of the board and not in control of the tower?

I think the OA is out to prove a point but have no experience and time to do so.

Im selling my unit soon!:bash:

Firstly, Aber was responsible for the first year and we all paid them our fees right? Well, Aber did not pay all contractors for this first year and there are still amounts outstanding from their period of responsibility. Including a significant amount for the initial purchase of the elevators.

Look at the iOAs budget analysis for 09/10, see how much was spent on non-maintainence issues. Where did the fees we paid to Aber go? There should even be 500k or so left over. But there isnt.

Finally, a handover from developer to OA is supposed to be an organised and govered transition in accordance with RERA regulations, and not a throw-your-toys-out-of-the-pram-and-deny-responsibility apprach which we have seen last month. The iOA are trying to do their best under the circumstances

Aber are on the board, as are one of their other companies, and both have a large amount of units, but they have allegedly not (per last week) paid their service charges for 2010/11 and appear to be trying to undermine to OA in several areas

Personally I am very pleased we have a group of people who have spent significant amount of time to go through this for our benefit, and I am certain we will have better, fairer, and more cost efficient service going forward. But we need to get through this difficult period first.

Good luck selling if thats what you decide, but I think its worth sticking it out.

AndyH

August 18th, 2010, 01:28 PM

1 of the High floor lifts back in service today, so 2/3 are ok. :banana:

noir-dresses

August 18th, 2010, 03:48 PM

1 of the High floor lifts back in service today, so 2/3 are ok. :banana:

Keep the up dates coming Andy, thanks.

AndyH

August 19th, 2010, 09:21 PM

All 6 lifts now in service. Well done to whoever sorted that out :nuts:

Thamera

August 23rd, 2010, 12:51 PM

Firstly, Aber was responsible for the first year and we all paid them our fees right? Well, Aber did not pay all contractors for this first year and there are still amounts outstanding from their period of responsibility. Including a significant amount for the initial purchase of the elevators.

Look at the iOAs budget analysis for 09/10, see how much was spent on non-maintainence issues. Where did the fees we paid to Aber go? There should even be 500k or so left over. But there isnt.

Finally, a handover from developer to OA is supposed to be an organised and govered transition in accordance with RERA regulations, and not a throw-your-toys-out-of-the-pram-and-deny-responsibility apprach which we have seen last month. The iOA are trying to do their best under the circumstances

Aber are on the board, as are one of their other companies, and both have a large amount of units, but they have allegedly not (per last week) paid their service charges for 2010/11 and appear to be trying to undermine to OA in several areas

Personally I am very pleased we have a group of people who have spent significant amount of time to go through this for our benefit, and I am certain we will have better, fairer, and more cost efficient service going forward. But we need to get through this difficult period first.

Good luck selling if thats what you decide, but I think its worth sticking it out.
Hey,

After i read your post... i did some home work.

We paid Aber for the service charges which in my opinion does not go to contractor for outstanding payments. Ifthe contractor is paid thats how Aber could get a building completion certificate from them and we all have moved in or leased.

Now the question here is has the contractor paid their sub contractor who installed the elevators. And who would be repsonsible for this if not?

The IOA analysis is good but look at the expenses along with the approved budget whether you and me like it or not Aber are almost in line with the budget. the financials still shows the money is still there and not gone..of course what ever is left of it. and dont forget it was a 10 month report where there would have been more collections expenses etc.

I agree to your comment on the handover process. It is not at all professional. I will be talking about it to Aber this week and find out the reason behind such a move and let you know. i think you are right about the service charges THEY SHOULD PAY!!!

What i heard is some of the IOA memebers are planning to start their own facility management company to take over thus the final budget is not yet approved. So i would not be that certain we will have fairer and better services and the significant amount they are spending is for their benefit.

AndyH

August 24th, 2010, 05:06 PM

Hi Thamera

I know for sure that the elevator company was owed for initial purchase and repairs, and this was a 6 figure sum. I have seen the invoice.

As for the rest, I am really not comfortable giving further details on this public forum, but would be happy to discuss it with you in person. PM me.

As for the IOA starting an agency, well they are an elected body and answerable to the owners. So I would expect full transparency. having met a few of the board and been at the initial owners meeting and vote, I am still happy with who we elected and they have my confidence until proven otherwise :)

Andy

AndyH

September 1st, 2010, 08:01 AM

Guys,

anyone have a unit available for the next few weeks?

Please PM me if so and i'll explain.

many thanks

kafkaz30

September 1st, 2010, 04:57 PM

Paid mine also. But there are many units which have not yet paid and they need to take responsibility asap.

Hi...
Paid my service dues around 2 weeks ago...have not heard anything from the OA after that. Are we closer to coming to some kind of final rate for the per sq ft service charge from the OA now?

Can someone who lives in the building actually look into this?

Tks.

AndyH

September 2nd, 2010, 10:32 PM

Hi...
Paid my service dues around 2 weeks ago...have not heard anything from the OA after that. Are we closer to coming to some kind of final rate for the per sq ft service charge from the OA now?

Can someone who lives in the building actually look into this?

Tks.

I will have a chat with the OA this weekend and try and get some comms out.

In other news, we now have a beauty salon opened up on the ground floor!

noir-dresses

September 2nd, 2010, 11:05 PM

Are they doing any land scaping in between our building, and the lake yet ?

noir-dresses

September 9th, 2010, 09:56 AM

I hear the pool is shut down.

AndyH

September 12th, 2010, 09:17 AM

Are they doing any land scaping in between our building, and the lake yet ?

nope. the handrails are up around the lake but no landscaping yet

kafkaz30

September 17th, 2010, 08:18 PM

I will have a chat with the OA this weekend and try and get some comms out.

In other news, we now have a beauty salon opened up on the ground floor!

Hi...Any update from the OA about finalizing the service charges?

AndyH

January 13th, 2011, 12:37 PM

Hi...Any update from the OA about finalizing the service charges?

update was sent today by teh iOA, 16aed apparently.

Some photos..

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/9844/p1130201.jpg (http://img502.imageshack.us/i/p1130201.jpg/)

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/600/p1130198.jpg (http://img267.imageshack.us/i/p1130198.jpg/)

AndyH

February 8th, 2011, 07:10 AM

As many of you would have seen already, Arch is going to have an electronic access system in place from MArch. If the service charges (6aed psf) have been paid you will be able to get access cards allowing entry to the building.

If you are an owner and did not receive the mail about this please PM me.

If you are a tenant, check with your landlord.. if they havent paid the SCs you will only be able to access your unit by the stairs from March!

eoingrffn

February 20th, 2011, 09:32 AM

My landlord has received no communication with regard to the access cards. Who is best to contact??????

AndyH

February 21st, 2011, 06:33 AM

PM with an email address and ill forward the applications forms etc.

Although if he didnt receive the mail, I doubt he has received the one asking to pay the service charge! So he will need to do that first.

noir-dresses

April 8th, 2011, 09:42 AM

Our thread is quiet lately.

Question, have any of the commercial units/spaces opened up in our building yet ?

What do we have so far, and do any of you know what is opening soon ?

Any chance of making a list of what we will have ?

I hope we will have a nice coffee shop.

noir-dresses

April 24th, 2011, 09:45 AM

I just called Aber and they received my last 6 AED per square/foot maintenance charge payment for the 2010-11 season. That makes me all payed up, and on time as usual.

We ended up paying 16 AED for the year, I wonder if our new OA is doing good, or is there any way we can bring the maintenance charges down a little more ?

Does any body know how much reserve funds our building has, and what is the status of all the tenants paying up ?

I don't see my self coming to Dubai until September/October so I think I should see a big change by then. I hope all the commercial units are up, and running. The JLT master community landscaping should be even better by then as well.

When do you guys see the parking spaces being allocated ?

Whats the status with the pool, and jacuzzi ?

Have the access cards kicked in yet, if not when will they ?

AndyH

June 1st, 2011, 02:04 PM

For those of you not living here or getting the emails, some updates:

We now have a management company, and communications have improved a lot plus permanent Asset Manager in the office.

The Fire detection and alarm system is being tested this week. It seems to be progressing well, but not before time!

The pool room is being given a lick of paint and the pool will be back in services on the 3rd june. New deck chairs coming also.

The next AGM is on 25th June.

Keycard system not activated yet

noir-dresses

June 3rd, 2011, 11:45 AM

Thanks Andy,

are they replacing the existing deck chairs, or adding more to spice up the pool, and terrace ? Are there any plans to also give the terrace a greener look with more plants, and vegetation ?

For those of you not living here or getting the emails, some updates:

We now have a management company, and communications have improved a lot plus permanent Asset Manager in the office.

The Fire detection and alarm system is being tested this week. It seems to be progressing well, but not before time!

The pool room is being given a lick of paint and the pool will be back in services on the 3rd june. New deck chairs coming also.

The next AGM is on 25th June.

Keycard system not activated yet

AndyH

June 3rd, 2011, 03:03 PM

Thanks Andy,

are they replacing the existing deck chairs, or adding more to spice up the pool, and terrace ? Are there any plans to also give the terrace a greener look with more plants, and vegetation ?

There are already plants around the terrace, although just to add some greenery and its not exactly going to give you any shade etc :P

It seems they have collected up the old deck chairs and refurbished them, they are all back in position now. I just had a look and indeed the pool and jacuzzi are working well and the whole room looks better than on handover.

Its a good start, lets hope it will develop from here.

Thamera

June 16th, 2011, 09:01 AM

wow its been a year already........

with this new elections coming up...we have to make sure that the current board is not reelected..ie...if they are standing or are allowed to stand...dunno how it works...

i think we all have seen the results............

am i right?

correct me if im wrong

AndyH

June 16th, 2011, 09:09 AM

Well, it took a long while but IMO thats down to the situation they inherited. Looking at where we are now, its a vast improvement from a year ago. Pretty much everything is working as intended and we seem to be a lot better organized.

I have no objection for the same board to continue, provided they are up for it. I dont think I could do better.

noir-dresses

June 16th, 2011, 10:38 AM

Looks like they did a good job considering we were a total mess the year before.

If I'm correct it should be easy sailing from now on.

Thamera

June 16th, 2011, 02:19 PM

Guys,

All the changes happened due to the new management company....

It took a year to figure that out between them that they cud not do it...

The SC were collected in installments....which again was not timely....the last portion was just a month ago. I dont have money to spare now and again in a month...

What about the people who did not pay...I am sure there are many. It was announced the access card will prevent them and that should have been operational since march.

There was a meeting held in Feb between the board and owners .Where they said the fire system should be up and running. From Andys post it seems it still is not working.
I strongly beleive that you should rethink yoour position

AndyH

June 16th, 2011, 04:28 PM

They have been testing the fire system and I dont know about you, but it works on my floor. Whether its now permanently enabled we need to find out.

yes, the management company is helping, and it took a while to get them, but who do you think got them on board? the iOA, i.e. people who have day jobs and other commitments who can not be stuck in the arch office all day.

This should probably have happened long ago, but there were other more serious concerns, such as ensuring the contractors stayed on site, cleaning and security was ongoing, and that the Dewa and PDC was paid. Now the iOA are on top of that, we get the asset manager as our day to day interface.

If you had attended all the residents meetings as I have, all this should be clear to you, as well as the reason for the irregular payment requests : There were far bigger issues at stake, which have now been resolved, under the watch of the iOA.

However, far be it for me to advise anyone how to use their votes. Plus there may be some new candidates up for a turn. Lets see.

Waiting_Forever

June 23rd, 2011, 09:25 PM

yes, the management company is helping, and it took a while to get them, but who do you think got them on board? the iOA, i.e. people who have day jobs and other commitments who can not be stuck in the arch office all day.

This should probably have happened long ago, but there were other more serious concerns, such as ensuring the contractors stayed on site, cleaning and security was ongoing, and that the Dewa and PDC was paid. Now the iOA are on top of that, we get the asset manager as our day to day interface.

If you had attended all the residents meetings as I have, all this should be clear to you, as well as the reason for the irregular payment requests : There were far bigger issues at stake, which have now been resolved, under the watch of the iOA.

I agree with Andy 100%. The IOA did its best with their own day to day work and Dubai Arch responsibilities. They exposed a lot of Aber’s faults and shortfalls in the design and construction of the building. If the IOA did nothing about some of the issues, the building would have been closed by now. AFM did even pay the Service Charges until they were forced by the IOA to pay the same since we ran out of money. If they were on the board, they would have tried their best to cover up this point.

We need to make sure that Aber Facilities Management is not elected in the coming voting. There is a clear conflict of interest and they will be looking for their own interest as the developers and not ours. AFM did their best to disperse / disassemble the IOA and thanks heaven AFM failed. This was due to all the hard work and the efforts that IOA put in, free of charge. I believe this should be appreciated by all owners like me, who do not spend enough time and effort into the running of the building.

It is extremely important to all of us to make sure AFM is not on the new board.

ALL: Please think about this and vote for our benefits and not against it.

AndyH

June 25th, 2011, 04:04 PM

It was a productive OA meeting today and it was good to finally meet some of you from the forum. Thanks to those who showed up in support.

andy

noir-dresses

June 26th, 2011, 12:51 AM

What happened Andy ?

Sorry I'm at my cottage all week, and had no means of scanning, and sending you my vote.

AndyH

June 26th, 2011, 05:36 AM

What happened Andy ?

Sorry I'm at my cottage all week, and had no means of scanning, and sending you my vote.

Kingfield presented a summary of the situation to date, improvements carried out in the last couple of months and those due soon.

Voted for new board - a few personnel changes there
Voted on new budget - majority in favour
Voted on amount for Reserve Fund
Voted on Service Provider selections

Some Q&A.

There should be minutes out soon where you can see the full details and results. The meeting was quite well attended.

Imre

August 5th, 2011, 01:58 PM

5/August/2011

Dubai Arch 2 BR interior photos and the view

My friend apartment is repainted and cleaned now:)

http://i51.tinypic.com/2aj6x60.jpg

Photos:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/imresolt/sets/72157627237051493/

kafkaz30

September 14th, 2011, 01:23 PM

What amount has our OA set as service charges per sq ft?

The OA at Lakepoint has set service charge at 8.83 AED per sq ft. The have also audited the last two year accounts and there is supposed to be a credit applied. I haven't actually received an invoice as yet, figures are through the minutes of the OA meeting. Sounds to me like you are paying over the odds!

Quote:
Originally Posted by Skinto
Can we do a quick survey on how much is being charged in various towwers for service charges? I will start it off:

Armada Towers 17.4AED per sq ft