Is my landlord responsible for fixing peeling paint?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Article 17 of Law No. 26 of 2007, the landlord is typically responsible for all major maintenance and repairs related to the structural integrity and the core systems of the property. This includes addressing issues stemming from the building's envelope, such as water infiltration or chronic condensation problems that lead to paint failure.

The key factor is the root cause. In your JVC apartment, the peeling near the window is a classic symptom of excessive moisture. Given the UAE's high humidity, this is often due to condensation forming on the cooler surface of the window or wall, which then soaks into the plaster and paint, causing it to blister and peel. This is a building envelope and ventilation issue, not superficial wear and tear, which would be your responsibility.

The exact steps to take are:

1. Formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) with clear photos and a description of the issue. Mention its progressive nature over the last two months.
2. Politely reference that the damage appears to be due to a condensation/moisture issue, which falls under structural maintenance.
3. Request a professional inspection to determine the exact cause. A proper assessment is crucial, as simply repainting without fixing the moisture source will cause the problem to recur quickly.

We strongly recommend a certified indoor environmental quality inspection to document the humidity levels and identify the precise source of moisture. This report will provide definitive proof of liability. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC).

For a professional inspection and detailed report to present to your landlord, you can call our experts at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.