Who should address the mold issue?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a strange green growth on the ceiling of my rental unit's bedroom. It’s starting to spread, especially in the corners, and it has this musty smell that’s been lingering even after multiple air purifier sessions. Who is responsible for addressing this mold issue—should I inform the landlord or handle it myself?
Posted by Tomasz Martin
Asked on January 7, 2026 12:19 am
Addressing the mold issue in your rental unit’s bedroom is quite important and should be handled seriously. Given that you’ve noticed green growth spreading on the ceiling especially at corners and a musty smell persisting despite using air purifiers, it sounds like a significant concern that needs professional attention.

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, tenant rights and responsibilities are outlined under the Tenancy Law which can be found in the Civil Transactions Act (Law No. 21 of 1985). According to these regulations, landlords are responsible for maintaining the premises in good condition, which would include ensuring there is no mold growth due to maintenance issues such as water leaks or inadequate ventilation.

However, it's practical and often more efficient to start by informing your landlord about this situation. You can document the extent of the mold with photos and a brief description noting that you’ve tried remedial actions like using air purifiers but have not seen improvement. Sending an email or scheduling a meeting with your landlord is advisable; this approach allows for clear communication and gives them the opportunity to address the issue promptly.

If after communicating with the landlord, no action is taken within a reasonable timeframe (say 7-10 days), you might consider escalating the matter through the local real estate regulatory body. In Dubai, the Department of Real Estate (DRE) can provide guidance on how to handle unresolved issues between tenants and landlords regarding property maintenance.

Should the situation worsen or if professional intervention is needed, it's recommended that you contact a certified mold remediation service provider in the UAE/Dubai region. Services like Saniservice offer comprehensive mold inspection, testing, and remediation solutions tailored to local environmental conditions. Their contact details are 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or by email at hello@saniservice.com.

Remember, mold can pose serious health risks, especially for individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems. Hence, addressing it promptly is crucial. If you find that the situation isn’t improving or if you're uncomfortable dealing with it alone, don't hesitate to seek professional help.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 8, 2026 2:43 pm