Who is responsible for ground floor dampness?« Back to Previous Page

The issue of ground floor dampness is quite common in the UAE and can be attributed to various factors. In Dubai, as it pertains to building maintenance responsibilities, the division between what a landlord is obligated to maintain versus what's considered your personal responsibility can get nuanced.

Firstly, under the UAE federal law Federal Law No. 7 of 1982 concerning the Code of Obligations, Article 465 states that "the owner or tenant shall be responsible for maintaining and repairing the building in good condition." This means that a landlord must ensure the structural integrity of the property is maintained to prevent damage such as dampness from occurring. However, it's important to clarify what exactly constitutes 'structural' maintenance versus regular upkeep.

In practical terms, issues like water penetration through exterior walls or roof leaks would fall under the landlord’s responsibility if these were present at the time of your tenancy agreement or developed due to structural defects that arose before you took up residence. However, dampness caused by internal factors such as poor ventilation, condensation in areas with high humidity levels (like bathrooms), or leakage from fixtures and fittings within your unit would generally be considered part of regular maintenance and thus your responsibility.

Given the specific context of persistent ground floor dampness, it's crucial to conduct a thorough inspection. This might include checking for leaks in external walls, ensuring proper drainage around the building, assessing the condition of the foundation, and examining internal factors such as leaking pipes or condensation issues within your unit.

In Dubai, it’s advisable to follow local regulations which are detailed in Building Maintenance Guidelines published by the Dubai Municipality (DM). These guidelines provide specific recommendations on how to address dampness and mold growth, which is a critical concern given the climate.

If you determine that the issue seems beyond what can be reasonably managed as tenant, or if it's causing significant discomfort or potential health issues, contacting an independent professional for inspection would be prudent. Saniservice, with their expertise in environmental inspections and remediation, could provide a thorough assessment of your situation. Remember to have any reports from such professionals handy when communicating with the landlord.

In conclusion, while landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and preventing water penetration issues, dampness caused by internal factors might fall on you as tenant. Always seek professional advice if unsure or if the issue persists despite due diligence.