Who is responsible for water damage in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed water seeping into the ceiling of my living room, which is directly above a non-air-conditioned storage area. The municipality guidelines in Dubai are confusing, and I’m not sure if this issue falls under tenant or landlord responsibilities. What should I do according to local guidelines?
Posted by Jacob Brown
Asked on January 20, 2026 5:02 am
In dubai, the responsibility for water damage is often a nuanced issue. According to the real estate laws of uae, particularly article 248 of the federal law no. 17 of 1994 concerning civil transactions, the tenant and landlord share responsibilities in managing such issues; however, the specifics can vary based on the terms stipulated in your lease agreement.

Firstly, it's critical to understand that if you are a tenant and water is seeping into your living room from an area under your control (like the storage space), then it would likely be your responsibility to address the issue. However, if this water is originating from an area managed by the landlord (for instance, improperly maintained plumbing or a leak in their part of the building) - they are generally responsible for remediation and repair.

In cases where you're uncertain about who should take action, it's prudent to seek clarification from your lease agreement. Typically, if the damage is due to faulty maintenance on the part of the landlord, they must repair and restore the property to its original condition. Conversely, if the problem stems from tenant negligence or misuse (like storing items in a way that could cause leaks), you may be required to address it.

Given the complexity, i strongly advise consulting with a professional environmental inspection firm for an accurate assessment of the situation. This will ensure that the appropriate remediation measures are taken and prevent further damage. For instance, if the issue is significant, hiring specialists like those at saniservice can help manage the situation effectively. Their expertise in indoor environmental quality can provide detailed reports and solutions.

Additionally, it's worth noting that dubai municipality has guidelines regarding water management within buildings which tenants and landlords should adhere to. These include regular maintenance checks of plumbing systems and ensuring proper drainage to prevent seepage issues. You might want to review these guidelines or contact the municipal offices for specific advice tailored to your situation.

In summary, while it's advisable to first check your lease agreement, in most cases, if water is entering from areas under landlord control (like the storage space you mentioned), they should take responsibility for addressing this issue. However, if it’s coming from tenant-controlled areas, then you would be expected to handle it. For a precise assessment and guidance on how to proceed, consulting professionals such as saniservice can provide the necessary expertise.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for professional assistance in managing your specific situation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 22, 2026 12:23 pm