Should sandstorm deposits be my responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

After the sandstorm that hit last week, I’ve noticed a layer of fine dust settling on everything in my living room, even though it’s on the second floor. My landlord mentioned that tenants are responsible for cleaning common areas, but what about when the storm deposits dirt directly into our units? Should I be addressing this with him, or is this considered maintenance that he should handle?
Posted by Anna Martin
Asked on January 25, 2026 8:01 pm
0
In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, sandstorms can be quite common and can leave their mark even in higher-floor units. The question of who is responsible for cleaning sandstorm deposits really depends on a few factors including the structure of your building and local regulations.

Firstly, it's important to understand that while tenants are typically responsible for maintaining their individual living spaces, common areas like hallways or balconies might fall under different maintenance responsibilities. If you're noticing fine dust settling in your second-floor apartment after a sandstorm, there could be two angles to consider here:

1. Common Area Maintenance: If the sand is coming from outside and depositing into your unit through open windows or vents, it's worth checking if your building has any specific maintenance provisions for cleaning common areas like balconies, entryways, or stairwells. In some cases, these might be covered under building management responsibilities.

2. Unit Maintenance: If the sand is directly entering your living space, this could be a matter of personal responsibility due to the nature of your apartment's design and the protection it offers against external elements. Generally speaking, tenants are expected to keep their units clean and in good condition, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they should handle everything related to severe environmental events.

Given the specifics of your situation, if you're concerned about the frequency or severity of sandstorm deposits, I would recommend reaching out to your landlord first. Open communication can often lead to a mutual understanding regarding responsibilities and actions needed to address such issues.

If the problem persists or seems to be getting worse despite your efforts, it might be wise to consider professional inspection services. These experts can assess the extent of damage and provide guidance on necessary cleaning procedures and potentially even suggest improvements to prevent future occurrences.

Remember, keeping a clean living environment is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality. So if you do decide to handle this yourself, ensure that you use appropriate protective gear such as masks and gloves while cleaning and dispose of waste properly to avoid spreading dust further.

Lastly, in cases where the sandstorm deposits are significant or recurrent, it might be beneficial to call 800-MOLDS (or 800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for professional assistance. They can offer detailed cleaning solutions and advice tailored to your specific conditions.

Stay proactive about maintaining a clean living environment, but don’t hesitate to seek support when needed!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 30, 2026 12:20 am