10 Years Is A Long, Long Time

摘要

Under UAE law, main contractors and engineers may have to compensate their employer for the collapse of any part of a building that they construct or for a defect that threatens its stability or safety, even if they are not at fault. This applies if the collapse or defect occurs within 10 years of the handing over of the works and claims for compensation must be commenced within three years of the collapse or discovery of the defect.rnThe law, commonly known as decennial liability, is set out in articles 880-883 of the UAE civil code. Contractors and design consultants should be aware that the law is strict. It is not necessary for the employer to prove there was any breach of contract or negligence to claim compensation, even if the collapse or defect arose from a flaw in the land itself.