Who pays for fixing basement moisture issues?« Back to Previous Page
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After the rain last month, I noticed a damp smell lingering in the basement of my apartment, and it’s been pretty unpleasant. The AC seems to struggle with removing all the moisture, making the air feel heavy and not very breathable. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed some yellowish patches on the walls down there too. Who is responsible for addressing these indoor air quality issues in a rental property?
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Addressing the moisture issues in your apartment's basement can indeed be tricky. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, regulations surrounding rental properties do provide some guidance but it is often up to interpretation and negotiation between landlord and tenant.
In general, if you're renting a property, the responsibility for addressing major structural or maintenance issues like excessive moisture usually lies with the landlord. However, there are nuances. If the dampness and associated issues (like the yellowish patches on walls) seem to have been present before your tenancy began, it could be argued that this is something the landlord should address. On the other hand, if the issues developed after you moved in due to negligence or poor maintenance by the landlord, you might need to bring up the issue with them. You can do this in a formal letter or during regular property inspections. Many tenants find it helpful to have an independent assessment of the situation conducted by professionals like ourselves at [Saniservice] to ensure that the issues are accurately diagnosed and any necessary repairs made. In Dubai, there is no specific law stating that landlords must maintain a certain level of indoor air quality in rental units, but this does not mean they don’t have obligations. The Building Maintenance and Inspection Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2015) requires building owners to ensure the safety and proper maintenance of their properties. Given that you're experiencing unpleasant odors along with visible dampness, it would be wise to document these issues thoroughly and communicate them clearly to your landlord or management company. If they refuse to take action, consider reaching out to a local tenant rights organization or legal advisor for guidance on your specific situation. For serious cases where the air quality is significantly affected, we recommend getting in touch with professionals who can conduct thorough inspections and provide remediation services if needed. We, at Saniservice, are ready to help assess and resolve these issues - just give us a call at 800-MOLDS or send an email to hello@saniservice.com. Remember, addressing moisture problems promptly not only improves indoor air quality but also helps prevent further damage to your property and health. |
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