Dubai contains some of the tallest residential skyscrapers in the world, which have also attracted negative media attention. They have witnessed several building fires in recent years that have destroyed people’s homes and lives, whether or not they had home insurance that was provided by insurance brokers in uae and others. This raises the question of who is to blame for such a tragedy.

The Cause of Fires

While the causes of each fire reported can range from improperly disposed of cigarette butts to electrical problems, the reasons they spread are what worry the local populations. Every single incident involved the use of combustible aluminum cladding on the exterior of the buildings, which contributed to the fast spread. Over 70% of buildings in Dubai that were built before 2009 have outside cladding made of materials that aren’t fire-resistant, putting people at risk from future fires.

All structures over 15 meters tall must now have fire-resistant aluminum cladding, according to an upgrade to the Fire and Life Safety Code that took effect in 2011. Unfortunately, this means that the hundreds of previously constructed towers will remain unaccounted for until they need maintenance and must then stick to the new cladding rules.

Who is Responsible for Insurance?

Most people who sign leasing agreements believe they are covered by the landlord’s insurance policy, which puts them at risk of being held responsible for losses or damage. In actuality, the tenant is exclusively liable for their property and things inside their rental apartment, with the property developer and the owner’s association only responsible for the common areas. As a result, a tenant must have their own personal insurance policy; otherwise, they are strictly responsible for paying for any damage or loss that happens. Insurance can be purchased from several corporate insurance brokers and others after checking their credibility.

Who’s Behind the Insurance Regulation?

Fire insurance coverage, as well as the rules and regulations of insurance providers like insurance brokers in dubai and the UAE and other companies, are governed by Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, often known as the UAE Civil Transaction Law.

According to the law, the insurer must pay for all damages brought on by a fire, regardless of the cause, as long as they are a direct outcome of the fire and weren’t brought on by the insured’s or beneficiary’s willful or dishonest behavior. The extent of the insurance and the compensation will vary depending on the insurance company and the policy coverage.

Conclusion

Despite the recently passed laws, many buildings in Dubai continue to be covered in the same combustible material, so there is still a significant chance that further structures could catch fire. Tenants will be liable for paying for all damages in the event of a fire if they choose not to get insurance. In addition, they’ll probably have to pay for a new apartment while still being financially obligated to keep paying rent for the previous one while the lease is still in effect.

It is advisable to get legal counsel before purchasing crucial and necessary property insurance. Contact Crossroads Insurance if you have any inquiries or require legal counsel regarding anything related to insurance in the UAE.