Is dampness in basement my landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains we had last month, I noticed a musty smell starting to develop in the basement of my rental. The area is mostly used for storage but gets damp quite often. It’s been about three weeks now and there seems to be some discoloration on the walls too. Is it the landlord's responsibility to address this issue or should I bring it up with them?
Posted by Hans Schmidt
Asked on December 24, 2025 8:14 pm
In the UAE, particularly Dubai, landlord responsibilities regarding dampness and mold growth can indeed be tricky to navigate. Under the Property Law of the UAE (Federal Law No. 12 of 2007), a landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes ensuring that there are no major defects or issues that could result in damage due to water leakage or poor maintenance.

However, when it comes specifically to mold growth in your basement, the situation can become more complex. Mold thrives in damp and humid conditions, so while a landlord should maintain the structural integrity of the property to prevent such conditions, it's not always their responsibility if there is no clear defect that caused the moisture. In your case, since you've noticed discoloration after recent heavy rains, it’s important to note that the moisture issue could be due to natural humidity or poor ventilation.

Given the specifics of your situation, it would be wise to conduct a professional mold inspection and remediation assessment. This is not just about addressing the smell; it's crucial for maintaining the health of yourself and any occupants. In Dubai, you can contact companies like Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) who specialize in such assessments.

Professional inspectors will use advanced techniques to determine the extent of mold growth, if any, and provide recommendations on how to remediate the issue. They might also recommend steps to prevent future occurrences, such as proper ventilation, dehumidification systems, or even waterproofing measures for the basement walls.

Remember, addressing this promptly can help avoid potential health issues from mold exposure and also ensures that your living environment remains safe and healthy. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional service if you're unsure about handling it yourself or if the situation seems more complex than initial observations suggest.

Stay proactive in maintaining your living conditions, especially after weather events like heavy rains.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 27, 2025 2:41 pm