Who is responsible for a dampness report in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

Excellent question. This is a very common point of contention between tenants and landlords here in Dubai, especially in older buildings in areas like Deira where construction issues are more prevalent.

The responsibility for obtaining a certified dampness report falls squarely on the landlord. Under UAE law, specifically the Dubai Rental Law, the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition and ensure its structural integrity. A persistent damp patch, especially one causing paint to bubble and peel, indicates a potential breach of this obligation. It is not considered normal wear and tear.

Your landlord's claim that it's from your AC is a common deflection. While AC units can cause condensation if not properly drained, a professional inspection is required to determine the true source, which could indeed be a leaking pipe from the upstairs unit, a failed waterproofing membrane in the bathroom, or even capillary rising damp from the foundation – all structural issues the landlord must address.

Your responsibility as the tenant is to report the issue in writing (always have a paper trail) and provide access for an inspection. Do not attempt to fix it yourself, as this could void your rights. To resolve the impasse, you must insist on a Certified Indoor Environmental Quality assessment from a Dubai-approved company like ours. This report will definitively identify the moisture source using tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters, and it is a legally recognized document that can be presented to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) if your landlord continues to refuse action.

For a definitive answer and to protect your tenancy rights, you need that certified report. Our teams are experts in diagnosing these exact issues. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive dampness investigation.