What are my rights regarding ceiling leaks?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, particularly within Dubai's municipal guidelines, the responsibility for addressing ceiling leaks during heavy rain events can be somewhat ambiguous. It is essential to understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant or landlord to ensure that you handle such situations appropriately.

Firstly, according to the Free Zone Commercial Tenancy Agreement (FTZ) and the Land and Property Regulation Authority (LGRA) guidelines, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the building. This includes ensuring that any water ingress issues like ceiling leaks during extreme weather events are addressed promptly. However, there's a caveat; if the damage is due to poor maintenance or neglect by the tenant, the responsibility might shift towards the tenant.

Given the specifics you've provided about your living room on the second floor experiencing unexpected leaks, it would be prudent to conduct a thorough inspection with an expert. Water seeping through from above can sometimes indicate underlying issues such as faulty plumbing or structural problems that may not have been immediately apparent. A professional inspection can help identify the exact cause and recommend appropriate remediation steps.

If you decide to seek assistance, consider reaching out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (66537) for a detailed assessment and advice on how to proceed. They offer comprehensive environmental inspections and can provide you with a clear understanding of what might be causing the leak and how it should be fixed.

In terms of your rights as a tenant, you have the right to request maintenance from your landlord if you believe the issue is due to their negligence. You must document any damage or issues reported to the landlord in writing, preferably via email or formal letter, to ensure there's an official record of communication and action taken.

Remember that under Dubai's laws, landlords are required to maintain reasonable standards of safety and habitability within the property. If you find that your rights are not being upheld, you can file a complaint with the relevant authorities like the Dubai Municipality or seek legal advice.

Ultimately, while the municipality guidelines might be somewhat vague, taking proactive steps through professional inspections and clear communication with your landlord is key to resolving such issues effectively and ensuring both parties' responsibilities are met.