Am I responsible for ceiling leak?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy downpour last month, I noticed a musty smell in the kitchen that wouldn’t go away. The AC unit seems to be leaking a bit into the corner near the fridge, and there’s some discoloration on the ceiling too. Am I responsible for fixing this or should my landlord take care of it?
Posted by Michel Romano
Asked on March 1, 2026 12:37 pm
The scenario you've described certainly raises concerns regarding mold and water damage. In the UAE, particularly Dubai, building regulations dictate that landlords are generally responsible for major structural issues such as plumbing leaks. However, it's crucial to understand your specific rights under local laws and any rental agreements you might have.

Given the condition you're experiencing with a ceiling leak and discoloration in your kitchen, it would be wise to first contact your landlord or property manager to inform them of the issue. They should arrange for an inspection by a certified professional to assess the extent of the damage and whether mold remediation is necessary. According to UAE laws (specifically Article 120 of the Civil Transactions Law), landlords must ensure that rented properties are in good repair, meaning they need to address issues like leaks promptly.

If your landlord does not respond adequately or there's a delay in addressing the problem, you can escalate the matter by writing a formal letter to them detailing the condition and requesting immediate action. You may also want to consult with legal experts familiar with UAE property laws for advice on how to proceed.

In parallel, it wouldn’t hurt to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for professional mold inspection services. Early detection and remediation are crucial in preventing the spread of mold, which can lead to severe health issues over time. Mold spores can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other adverse effects.

It's also important to ensure that you keep records of all communications with your landlord as well as any evidence (photos, videos) of the damage for future reference. This documentation could be essential if disputes arise or if legal action becomes necessary.

Lastly, while waiting for professional intervention, you can take some basic steps:
• Ensure proper ventilation in affected areas to reduce moisture levels.
• Avoid using fans directly on wet surfaces as this can spread mold spores.
• Place absorbent materials like towels under leaking pipes to catch excess water.

Remember, the UAE climate and frequent heavy downpours make it particularly important to be vigilant about water damage and its potential impact on health. Taking proactive steps now could save you significant inconvenience and cost in the long run.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 2, 2026 6:34 pm