Who pays for a certified dampness report as a tenant?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment for two years and just noticed the wall behind our sofa has a large patch of dampness that's starting to peel the paint. I’m worried it’s from a leak, but my landlord says it’s just humidity and that fixing the paint is our responsibility as tenants. I keep hearing I need to get things "certified" before any repairs. Who is actually responsible for arranging and paying for a certified dampness report to prove where the moisture is coming from?
Posted by Margaret Rodriguez
Asked on March 26, 2026 4:01 pm
Based on the UAE Civil Code, particularly Law No. (5) of 1985, and the Dubai Rental Law, the responsibility for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, including issues like leaks and rising damp, falls squarely on the landlord. This is a fundamental aspect of the landlord's warranty of peaceful habitation.

The cost for a certified dampness report, which is absolutely crucial to determine the moisture source, should be borne by the landlord. This report is the primary evidence needed to establish liability. If the inspection proves the issue is structural (e.g., a leaking pipe within the wall, faulty waterproofing, or seepage from outside), the landlord is 100% responsible for the report cost and all subsequent repairs, including repainting.

However, if you arrange the inspection without the landlord's agreement, you might have to front the cost initially, but you can seek reimbursement through the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC) in Dubai if the report confirms the landlord's liability. Do not proceed with any repairs yourself until the source is professionally identified and documented.

For a definitive, certified report that will hold up with your landlord and, if necessary, at the RDSC, you need a specialist. We use advanced tools like thermal imaging cameras and deep-probe moisture meters to accurately trace the moisture path back to its source.

Don't let the issue worsen. For an immediate assessment and a legally recognized certified report, call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can provide the documentation you need to resolve this with your landlord correctly.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 28, 2026 11:09 am