Who maintains waterproofing in common areas?« Back to Previous Page

Maintaining waterproofing in common areas is indeed a critical aspect of building maintenance and management. In the context of Dubai and UAE, the responsibility for waterproofing can sometimes be ambiguous depending on the specific conditions and agreements within your property.

According to the Building Code and Maintenance Regulations (Emaar Regulation No. 12/06), which governs high-rise residential buildings in Dubai, it is generally expected that the building owner or management company takes charge of common area waterproofing maintenance. However, if you're experiencing issues such as water seeping into your basement after heavy rains, it would be prudent to first verify the specific terms and conditions of your lease agreement.

Lease agreements typically outline responsibilities for both tenants and property managers. In most cases, tenants are responsible for maintaining their own units while the management company or building owner is accountable for common areas like basements, balconies, and parking structures. Nonetheless, if you're unsure about who should take care of waterproofing in your specific case, it might be wise to review your lease documents or contact your property manager.

For a more definitive answer, consider consulting with the local municipality guidelines. The Dubai Municipality has established comprehensive regulations regarding building maintenance and inspection, which can provide clarity on responsibilities for common areas. You should also check if there are any amendments or updates to these regulations that might affect your situation.

In scenarios where it’s unclear who is responsible, it's highly recommended to seek professional inspection services. Companies like Saniservice (contact 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance) can perform a thorough evaluation of the waterproofing system and provide expert recommendations on necessary maintenance actions.

It's also advisable to document any signs of water damage, such as moisture stains, mold growth, or structural issues. This documentation can be useful if you need to pursue claims with your property management company or landlord.

In summary, while it is generally the responsibility of the building owner or management for common area waterproofing, local regulations and lease agreements might dictate specific roles. To ensure proper maintenance and avoid potential damages, professional inspection services are a prudent step in such cases.