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After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a greenish tinge developing on the ceiling near the window in my living room. My partner thinks it’s just some paint flaking off, but I’m worried it might be mold. We’ve lived here for two years and the property management hasn’t done any maintenance work that I know of. Who is responsible for addressing this?
Posted by Krzysztof Janssen
Asked on January 16, 2026 12:40 pm
When dealing with mold issues in apartments within the UAE, especially areas like Dubai, it's crucial to understand who is responsible for addressing and removing the mold. This can often be a complex issue as it involves multiple parties such as tenants, property managers, and landlords.

According to local regulations and common practices in the UAE, the responsibility of mold removal generally falls on the landlord or the owner of the apartment. This is based on the principle that it's the duty of the property owner to maintain the structural integrity and cleanliness of the premises. However, if a tenant believes they have evidence pointing towards poor maintenance by the landlord, the tenant can bring this to attention.

In your specific case, you've noticed mold growth in your living room ceiling near the window, which could be due to moisture from recent heavy rains. If you're unsure about whether it's paint or mold and given that you’ve lived there for two years with no maintenance work reported by property management, it would be prudent to seek professional inspection.

You should contact a certified environmental inspector familiar with UAE standards, such as Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com), who can accurately identify the nature of the growth and provide a detailed report. This is especially important if you suspect it's mold, as it poses health risks.

Once identified, the landlord should be notified to address the issue promptly. If there’s no immediate response from the landlord, you might need to escalate the matter by contacting relevant authorities or legal experts who can assist in enforcing your rights under the lease agreement and local laws.

Remember that in Dubai and UAE, tenants have certain rights and protections under their lease agreements. However, it's always wise to consult a lawyer specializing in real estate law for specific advice tailored to your situation.

In summary, the landlord typically bears the responsibility of mold removal, but professional inspection is key to confirming the issue and guiding appropriate actions.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 18, 2026 6:17 pm