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

After the rain last month, I noticed water seeping into the kitchen from the balcony above, and it's left a moldy smell that won't go away. The landlord hasn't responded to my messages about it. Are tenants responsible for cleaning up water damage or should the landlord handle this?
Posted by Dana Al-Mansour
Asked on January 9, 2026 1:48 am
0
In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, tenants and landlords have responsibilities regarding maintenance of their properties. When it comes to balcony water damage that seeps into a kitchen area, you should consider several factors before determining who is responsible.

Firstly, as per the laws and regulations in Dubai (UAE), tenants are generally expected to maintain the internal condition of their living space while landlords must ensure structural integrity and external maintenance. However, if the water leak originates from an exterior or shared area like a balcony, it's the landlord's responsibility to address this issue.

If your landlord has not responded to your messages about the moldy smell, you might want to escalate the matter by sending a formal written notice to the management or owner. Include details of when you first noticed the problem and any attempts made to resolve it with the landlord.

Remember that dealing with water damage can lead to serious health issues like mold growth if not properly addressed. It's highly recommended that you seek professional inspection from an environmental remediation company to assess the extent of the damage and ensure your safety.

Here are a few steps you could follow:

1. Document everything: Take photos, keep records of your communications with the landlord.
2. Contact your local real estate authority or tenant rights organization if necessary for guidance.
3. Consider hiring a professional inspection service like Saniservice to evaluate the situation. They can help identify areas requiring urgent attention and provide expert advice.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for further assistance with environmental inspections and remediation services in Dubai, UAE.

Remember, the key is to act promptly to prevent any health risks associated with water damage and mold growth.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 11, 2026 6:49 am