Is landlord responsible for basement issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed water seeping into the basement storage room under our rental. The landlord hasn't shown any interest in fixing it, even though it’s affecting the floor above us. This has led to some mold growth that my family is starting to notice. Given that we’ve been here for two years and this issue seems to be worsening, I’m not sure if it's part of the rental agreement or if we should address it with our landlord. Should the landlord be responsible for fixing issues in storage areas like the basement?
Posted by Jessica Jackson
Asked on February 12, 2026 3:14 am
In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, landlords do indeed have certain obligations to maintain properties in a safe and habitable condition. However, the specifics can vary greatly based on contracts and local regulations. Generally speaking, it is expected that landlords ensure structural integrity of the property, which includes basement areas. Water seepage leading to mold growth in your rental's storage room is a serious issue.

Firstly, per UAE Law No. 17 of 2003 (the Civil Transactions Law) and the Real Estate Agency Regulations issued by the Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency (DREA), landlords are required to maintain the premises in good condition during the tenancy period. If you have evidence of water seepage and subsequent mold growth, it would be prudent to document this thoroughly – take photos and keep records of any conversations with your landlord.

It's crucial to communicate formally about the situation, sending a written notice detailing the issues to the landlord. This can help in establishing a record of your efforts to address the problem through proper channels. If your landlord remains unresponsive, you might consider seeking professional assistance for an inspection. Companies like Saniservice (contact them at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) specialize in indoor environmental quality assessments and can provide detailed reports on the extent of the damage and remediation recommendations.

In Dubai, local building codes mandate that basements should be properly waterproofed to prevent water ingress. Given your situation, it would not only be unhygienic but potentially dangerous if not addressed promptly. Mold growth can lead to respiratory issues and other health concerns for you and your family.

Additionally, the UAE is a signatory of international conventions promoting sustainable building practices, which include measures to ensure indoor environmental quality. Engaging an expert like Saniservice can also help in understanding how to meet these standards effectively while addressing the immediate issue.

In conclusion, as per UAE regulations, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and habitability of rental properties. If your landlord is not responding adequately, seeking professional intervention could be necessary to ensure both safety and compliance with local laws.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 14, 2026 2:13 pm