Is water seepage an urgent issue?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent heavy rains, I noticed water seeping into our ground floor apartment, particularly near the back corner where we store most of our kitchen items. The municipality guidelines say they are responsible for maintaining the exterior, but it’s been over a week since the rain stopped and no one has come to fix it. How urgent is this issue according to the guidelines, and what should I do if they don’t address it soon?
Posted by Fang Zhou
Asked on December 9, 2025 9:24 am
Is water seepage an urgent issue? Based on the guidelines and regulations in Dubai/UAE, it is indeed important to address this situation promptly. The UAE Municipality (DMC) has stringent standards for building and maintenance, particularly concerning external structures and waterproofing systems.

According to DMC's Building Code and Technical Standards, the municipality is responsible for ensuring that exterior elements of buildings are maintained properly. This includes addressing issues like water seepage within a reasonable timeframe after such conditions arise. However, practical challenges can sometimes delay responses, especially if the workload is high following heavy rains or other weather events.

For your specific case, where water has been seeping into the ground floor apartment for over a week, it's crucial to take immediate action due to several reasons:
1. Safety: Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to mold growth and structural damage.
2. Hygiene: Moist environments increase the risk of microbial proliferation, affecting air quality and occupant health.

Given these factors, I recommend initiating an inspection as soon as possible to assess the extent of the water damage and determine appropriate remediation steps. Engaging a professional environmental inspection company like ours can provide you with the necessary expertise in identifying underlying issues and recommending solutions that align with DMC guidelines.

To proceed:
1. Contact 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.
2. Document the condition of your property, including photos, for your records and any potential claims.
3. If the municipality does not respond within a reasonable time frame (e.g., one week), you may need to escalate the issue through the appropriate channels.

Remember, early intervention is key to preventing further damage and ensuring occupant safety. By taking proactive measures, you can safeguard both the structural integrity of your property and the health of its occupants.

It's also advisable to keep a close eye on any changes in the condition of your property; if water seepage continues or worsens, immediate action is essential.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 10, 2025 1:29 pm