Who is responsible for ceiling leaks in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, particularly within Dubai's building and property regulations, the responsibility for addressing ceiling leaks can be somewhat nuanced. A key point to understand is that the maintenance of common areas, which include ceilings, often falls under the purview of the landlord or building management.

According to The Free Zone Real Estate Agency Law No. 21 of 2004 and its subsequent amendments, landlords are required to maintain the structural integrity and functionality of a property including addressing water leaks in common areas such as ceilings. This is especially true for rental properties where the landlord holds the responsibility to ensure that the premises are habitable.

However, it's crucial to distinguish between common areas and individual units within a building. For instance, if you're experiencing leakage from your ceiling due to issues specific to your own apartment (such as faulty pipes or blockages in your unit), these would generally be your personal responsibility, not the landlord’s.

To handle such situations effectively:
1. Firstly, document the issue by taking detailed pictures and possibly a video of the affected area.
2. Inform your landlord or maintenance team about the leak promptly. Most landlords are required to respond within 48 hours under Dubai Municipality laws.
3. If no action is taken after due notice, consider hiring an independent professional for inspection. The UAE's Building Code (UAE-BC) requires building owners to ensure compliance with standards and regulations, which includes maintaining structural integrity.
4. Should the leak persist or if you suspect a more complex issue, it might be prudent to call in an expert from a company like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance.

Remember that while landlords are legally obligated to maintain common areas, they may not always act promptly. Engaging with professionals can help ensure the problem is addressed effectively and efficiently.