Who is responsible for cleaning after renovation?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent renovation work in our building, which went on for a couple of weeks, I’ve noticed some unusually high levels of dust in my apartment, especially in the living room where we spend most of our time. Given that we are renting and there aren’t any clear guidelines from the municipality about such situations, I’m unsure if it’s my responsibility to clean more frequently or if I should be contacting the landlord. What should I do?
Posted by Maha Nasser
Asked on February 22, 2026 9:46 pm
In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, responsibilities regarding cleaning after renovation projects can be somewhat ambiguous. While there are no explicit municipal guidelines that directly address this scenario, it is generally expected that the landlord should ensure the premises are clean and habitable upon completion of any work.

The building regulations in Dubai (as per the Building Control Department) emphasize safety and hygiene standards but do not specifically dictate who is responsible for post-renovation cleaning. According to the terms typically found in rental agreements, landlords are usually required to maintain the property in a good state of repair, including cleanliness, prior to tenants moving in or out.

However, if your tenant has engaged a contractor for renovation work, it’s crucial that you establish clear expectations and responsibilities before commencing any project. A well-drafted agreement can help prevent future disputes by detailing what needs to be cleaned, the timeline, and who is responsible for carrying out these tasks.

Given the situation in your apartment where there are unusually high levels of dust, especially in the living room, it would be prudent to take action. First, communicate with your landlord about the issue. Provide specific details on when the renovation started, how long it lasted, and the extent of the dust. Documenting these points can strengthen your case.

If no improvement is seen after reasonable communication attempts, you might consider engaging a professional indoor environmental quality inspector. This step not only helps in assessing the actual conditions but also provides objective evidence that may be necessary for any future disputes or claims against the landlord. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice offer such services and can provide detailed reports that could assist you.

Remember, while it's your responsibility to keep the apartment clean, excessive dust levels during or after renovation can pose health risks, especially in a rented space where you may not have full control over maintenance schedules. Therefore, advocating for cleaner conditions through professional means is often advisable.

In conclusion, although there are no specific municipal guidelines mandating who should clean post-renovation, clear communication with your landlord and potentially seeking the help of professionals can ensure that living conditions remain safe and acceptable.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 24, 2026 1:01 am