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

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, the responsibility for repairing ceiling leaks typically lies within the landlord's purview, especially concerning structural issues. However, it is crucial to understand that this responsibility can vary based on the specific circumstances and local laws.

The Civil Transactions Law 20 of 1985 governs residential tenancy agreements in the UAE, which includes provisions regarding maintenance and repairs. Article 74 states: "The Landlord shall be responsible for the necessary repair works to ensure the safety of the tenant." This implies that landlords are generally expected to maintain the structural integrity of the property, including ceilings.

However, if a ceiling leak is due to negligence on the part of the tenant (such as overloading a balcony or improper storage), then the tenant may be held responsible. Given your situation where water has been seeping through the ceiling for two years without any visible signs of misuse from your side, it's highly likely that this falls under the landlord’s maintenance responsibilities.

It is advisable to document all instances of the leak, including photographs and dates. This will help build a case if you need to escalate the issue further or seek legal advice. You may want to engage an independent professional for an inspection to assess whether the damage is due to structural issues that require landlord intervention.

In practical terms, I would recommend contacting your landlord directly with detailed information regarding the frequency and severity of the leak. If no response is forthcoming after reasonable attempts at communication, consider seeking assistance from relevant authorities such as the Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency (DREA) or the Ministry of Community Development's Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Centre.

Additionally, it might be prudent to consult a legal expert who specializes in real estate law within the UAE. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific case and help navigate any necessary steps towards resolving this issue.

Should you decide that professional intervention is required, don't hesitate to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for immediate support in addressing both the immediate leak and potential underlying issues.