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

In the UAE, particularly in cities like Dubai, it is crucial to understand who is responsible for addressing basement leaks. Generally speaking, the municipality guidelines and building codes play a significant role here.

Firstly, if your rental apartment is located in an area that experienced heavy rains recently, such events can indeed lead to water seepage into basements due to inadequate waterproofing measures. In Dubai, Building Code 2019, specifically Section 7.3, mandates the construction of buildings to include adequate waterproofing systems and drainage solutions. However, this responsibility usually falls on the property owner or landlord unless there is a specific clause in your rental agreement that assigns this duty to you as the tenant.

In practical terms, if you are renting an apartment and notice water seeping into the basement storage area, it would be wise to consult with your landlord first. If they fail to address the issue within a reasonable timeframe or refuse to do so, you might need to involve local authorities such as Dubai Municipality. They can inspect the property and provide guidance based on their guidelines.

It's also important to note that tenants in the UAE have rights as stipulated by the Federal Law No. 21 of 1985 concerning the regulation of private rental agreements. This law requires landlords to maintain the property in a safe, habitable condition which includes addressing any structural issues like water leaks. If your landlord is not proactive or cooperative, you might consider seeking legal advice.

In serious cases where immediate action is required and your landlord does not respond, professional inspection and remediation services are recommended. Companies such as Saniservice could offer a comprehensive assessment of the situation and provide solutions ranging from minor repairs to complete waterproofing treatments. Their contact number is 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or you can email them at hello@saniservice.com for assistance.

In conclusion, while tenants should be mindful of reporting any issues they notice, it ultimately falls on the property owner to ensure compliance with UAE building codes and maintain the structural integrity of the premises. Always keep a record of communications and observations regarding such incidents as it might be necessary when dealing with local authorities or legal matters.