Am I responsible for cleaning moldy water damage?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last week, I noticed water seeping into the corner of my bedroom floor, and now there's a definite musty smell that won’t go away. The landlord said it was likely due to flooding in the area, but he hasn't offered any help or solutions. Given that we're still paying rent for this space, am I responsible for getting it cleaned up, or should the landlord be taking care of this?
Posted by Lauren Robinson
Asked on December 30, 2025 12:11 pm
In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, post-flooding scenarios can pose significant challenges regarding indoor environmental quality (IEQ). The situation you described sounds quite common after heavy rain events. In your case, the musty smell and water seepage indicate potential mold growth which could lead to various health issues.

Based on local regulations, it is generally the landlord's responsibility to ensure that rental properties are in a habitable condition. However, when flooding occurs due to external factors beyond the landlord’s control, such as heavy rain, the situation can be more complex. In Dubai, it would be wise to have a professional environmental inspection conducted immediately to assess the extent of damage and determine if remediation is required.

Given the specific conditions in your scenario, I strongly recommend contacting an expert like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a thorough assessment. They can provide detailed reports on the mold contamination levels and suggest appropriate remediation strategies based on UAE standards.

In terms of your responsibilities as a tenant, you should document all signs of water damage and inform your landlord promptly. While it might be tempting to clean up yourself, this could exacerbate the problem if not done properly, especially without proper training or equipment. Professional remediation ensures that all mold spores are effectively removed, reducing the risk of future health issues.

Remember, in Dubai, the lack of immediate action can lead to further structural damage and increased health risks due to mold proliferation. Therefore, proactive measures like seeking professional help are crucial.

Lastly, keep records of all communications with your landlord regarding this issue. If no action is taken by the landlord after a reasonable period (typically within 7-10 days), you may have grounds for further legal actions or disputes under local tenant protection laws in Dubai.

Taking these steps can help ensure that both your health and property are protected post-flooding.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 1, 2026 4:37 am