What are my rights regarding maintenance in this case?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange moldy smell coming from under my bedroom floor. It’s really concerning because it feels damp all the time. My landlord hasn’t responded to any of my messages about this issue. What are my rights regarding maintenance responsibilities in a rental?
Posted by Daniel Walker
Asked on February 13, 2026 10:40 am
In the UAE, particularly within the context of Dubai, your rights regarding maintenance responsibilities in rental properties are governed by several key legal frameworks and local regulations. The Federal Law No. 17 of 2003 Concerning Real Estate Transactions (Revised) lays down the general guidelines for landlords and tenants, but it is often complemented with Emirate-specific laws or directives that can offer more specific guidance.

Regarding your situation where you've noticed a moldy smell from under your bedroom floor after rainfall, this issue certainly falls within the scope of urgent maintenance. The UAE Building Control Department (BCD) has stringent guidelines on building maintenance to ensure health and safety standards are met. BCD requires landlords to maintain their properties in good repair and to address any issues that may arise due to poor maintenance.

Given your situation, you have every right to demand immediate attention from your landlord regarding the dampness and resulting mold smell under your bedroom floor. If your landlord has not responded despite multiple messages, it's advisable to formally document all communications and keep records of any correspondence with the landlord or property manager. This will provide evidence of your efforts to resolve the issue amicably.

In serious cases like this one where there is a persistent dampness problem leading to mold growth, professional inspection by certified environmental professionals is highly recommended. These experts can accurately assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate remediation steps. You could contact companies such as Saniservice with phone number 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com for expert assistance.

Moreover, if your landlord continues to ignore your requests, you may escalate the matter through local authorities like the Municipality of Dubai or Emirate-specific real estate regulatory bodies. These entities can provide guidance and, in extreme cases, may intervene to enforce compliance with maintenance obligations.

Remember, while it's important to address health concerns promptly, always maintain a professional approach during these interactions. Document everything meticulously, including dates, times, and descriptions of communications. Your rights as a tenant are protected under UAE law, but proactive steps can often lead to quicker resolution of such issues.

In conclusion, your rights in this scenario are well-defined; the key is ensuring effective communication with your landlord while leveraging available resources for professional guidance when needed.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 15, 2026 12:28 pm