What are landlords required to do for wall leaks?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent heavy rains last month, I noticed water seeping into the wall near our kitchen countertop, which is a bit concerning since we live in a rental apartment. The municipality guidelines are quite vague on what landlords should do in such cases. Could anyone here share more about the responsibilities mentioned in the local municipality guidelines regarding water leaks and repairs?
Posted by Raj Malhotra
Asked on January 10, 2026 1:25 pm
Landlords in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, have certain obligations under the law concerning water leaks. The guidelines are indeed somewhat vague but it's crucial for tenants to understand their rights and responsibilities. In cases of wall leaks, landlords must ensure timely repairs are made.

Firstly, per the Landlord and Tenant Law (Federal Law No. 21 of 2014), landlords are responsible for maintaining a property in good condition. This includes repairing any damage caused by water leaks, ensuring that walls, ceilings, and other structural elements remain intact and watertight. However, it's important to note that the onus is often on tenants to report such issues promptly.

If you've noticed water seeping into your wall near the kitchen countertop, the immediate step should be to inform the landlord about this issue. A formal written notice is advisable as it serves as a record of when and what was communicated. Given the recent heavy rains, it might also be prudent to take photos or videos of the damage for documentation purposes.

In practical terms, if the leak appears minor and can be repaired by routine maintenance, landlords are expected to address it within a reasonable time frame without incurring exorbitant costs from the tenant. For serious cases where structural repairs or professional inspections are necessary, tenants might consider reaching out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) for expert advice and assistance.

Remember that while landlords must take care of these issues, they're not always responsible for the costs. The terms of your lease agreement will determine who is liable for repairs. If there's ambiguity or disagreement, seeking legal counsel may be necessary to clarify responsibilities.

In summary, as a tenant in Dubai experiencing a wall leak, it’s essential to notify your landlord immediately and keep detailed records of any damage observed. For professional guidance on handling such situations, consider contacting Saniservice for expert support.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 12, 2026 7:06 pm