Who is responsible for basement flooding?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for addressing basement flooding can be quite nuanced and may vary based on local regulations. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, it's crucial to understand that both landlords and tenants have a role to play in maintaining property conditions, especially when it comes to water management.

According to the Landlord and Tenant Regulations of the Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency (DREA), it is generally the landlord’s responsibility to ensure the structural integrity of the premises. This includes waterproofing measures, which are critical for preventing basement flooding, particularly in areas prone to rain or high groundwater levels. However, tenants also have a duty to take reasonable care of the property and report any issues they notice that may lead to damage.

In your situation, with a puddle forming directly below the garden area, it is advisable to first document the issue thoroughly. Take photos and note the date and time as evidence. This documentation can be useful if disputes arise or when seeking resolution from either the landlord or municipality.

The municipality guidelines in Dubai (and the UAE) do not specifically delineate clear-cut responsibilities for all types of water-related issues, but they generally emphasize the need for property owners to maintain their properties adequately. The DREA advises that landlords must provide a habitable and safe living environment. If you suspect that the flooding is due to poor maintenance or design flaws by the landlord, it would be prudent to formally notify them in writing.

For serious cases of basement flooding, especially if they are frequent or severe, professional inspection services should be sought. Companies like Saniservice can perform a comprehensive assessment and provide remediation solutions tailored to your property's specific needs. Their contact information is 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or you can email hello@saniservice.com for immediate assistance.

It’s also worth checking if the garden area has proper drainage systems that could be causing water to seep into your basement. Improving outdoor drainage might prevent such issues in the future and is often a shared responsibility between all parties involved.

In summary, while it's initially the landlord’s duty to ensure waterproofing measures are adequate, tenants have an obligation to report any observed issues promptly. Engaging professional services for assessment can provide clarity on the root cause of the problem and appropriate solutions.