Should I address water seepage from neighbor?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed water seeping into the bottom of my unit through the partition wall from the rental next door. The landlord hasn't seemed to notice or address it yet, and I’m unsure if this is something I should bring up with them or if they are responsible for the maintenance in that area. Should I be concerned about potential damage to my own apartment, and what steps should I take first?
Posted by Brittany Hill
Asked on February 24, 2026 5:34 am
Absolutely, the situation you've encountered is certainly cause for concern and demands prompt attention. Water seepage from your neighbor can lead to a myriad of issues, including structural damage, mold growth, and compromised indoor air quality. Given that this is an issue in Dubai/UAE, we must adhere to local regulations which emphasize tenant rights and responsibilities.

Firstly, you should document the extent of the water intrusion through photographs or videos for evidential purposes. This will be crucial if you need to escalate the matter with your landlord or seek professional inspection services. The UAE Building Code (UAE-BC) mandates proper maintenance of building partitions; hence, it's important to ascertain whether the issue lies within the partition wall.

If the seepage is minor and infrequent, monitoring its occurrence can provide valuable insights into potential sources such as plumbing leaks or insufficient waterproofing measures. However, for persistent or significant water intrusion, consider engaging a professional environmental consultant for an assessment. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice (800-MOLDS / 800-66537 / hello@saniservice.com) are well-regarded for their expertise in such matters.

In the interim, you should also inspect your unit for any signs of moisture damage or mold growth. The UAE Environmental Health Regulations (UAE-EHR) require landlords to ensure that buildings maintain a safe and healthy environment; thus, addressing these issues promptly can prevent further complications.

From a practical standpoint, it’s advisable to inform your landlord about the situation while keeping records of all communications. If they fail to address the issue within a reasonable timeframe, you may need to escalate it through formal complaints or seek legal advice. Remember, under Dubai's Tenant Protection Law, tenants have rights and can pursue mediation or arbitration services if disputes arise with landlords.

Taking these steps will not only help in resolving the current issue but also set a precedent for handling future maintenance concerns. Always prioritize your health and safety by ensuring proper ventilation and addressing any moisture-related issues immediately to prevent potential long-term damage.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 25, 2026 9:21 pm