Who is responsible for closet water damage?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last week, I noticed water seeping into the bottom of my bedroom closet. The rental agency hasn't checked on it yet, and I’m not sure if they or me are responsible for fixing this. Should I bring it up with them or wait for a maintenance check?
Posted by Sandra Johnson
Asked on March 2, 2026 5:50 am
The responsibility for dealing with closet water damage can indeed be a grey area and often depends on the local laws and lease agreements. In Dubai and other parts of UAE, there are specific regulations that outline what is expected from both landlords and tenants regarding maintenance and repairs.

In general, if the water seepage you're experiencing in your bedroom closet resulted from external factors such as heavy rains or flooding, it's likely that the landlord would be responsible for addressing the issue. However, if the damage stems from internal failures within your rented unit - like a leaky pipe or faulty drainage system - then the tenant might have some responsibility under the terms of their lease.

Given the nature of your situation, I'd recommend reaching out to your landlord immediately and documenting any evidence of water damage, such as photographs. This not only helps in setting the record straight but also ensures you follow proper protocol as per local laws and regulations which often stipulate that landlords must be notified within a certain timeframe (usually 24-48 hours) after becoming aware of potential damages.

Moreover, it's wise to consult your rental agreement to see if there are any clauses regarding water damage or maintenance responsibilities. Should you find the lease ambiguous on this point, you can refer to UAE's real estate laws, particularly those found in Federal Decree-Law No. 15 of 2003 (the Civil Transactions Law) and its amendments.

In cases where the damage is significant, it might be advisable to engage a professional inspection service to assess the extent of the water damage. This would not only provide an objective evaluation but also ensure compliance with local building codes and safety standards. Should you decide to go this route, don't hesitate to contact companies like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email them at hello@saniservice.com for expert advice and assistance.

Lastly, consider the practical implications of leaving the damage unaddressed. Moisture can lead to mold growth which poses health risks. Therefore, prompt action is crucial not only from a legal standpoint but also for your well-being and that of other occupants in the building.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 3, 2026 9:07 am