Should tenants address mold or is it landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a strange greenish-brown discoloration on the ceiling of my bedroom. My kids have also been complaining of persistent coughs and runny noses, which made me wonder if it could be mold. Have we as tenants any responsibility to address this issue or should it be handled by the landlord?
Posted by Laura Nowak
Asked on February 26, 2026 1:12 pm
In the context of Dubai and the UAE, it's important to understand that both tenants and landlords have responsibilities regarding mold. The exact nature of these roles may be influenced by local laws and agreements but generally, tenants should remain vigilant for potential issues while landlords are responsible for maintaining a habitable environment.

Firstly, it is crucial for tenants to take note if they observe signs of mold growth such as the greenish-brown discoloration you've noticed on your bedroom ceiling. Persistent respiratory symptoms in occupants like your kids could be indicative of airborne spores from mold colonies. These observations are serious and should not be ignored.

From a practical standpoint, it's highly recommended to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for professional mold inspection services. They can provide a detailed assessment and advice on the remediation process. However, as a tenant, you have an initial responsibility to notify your landlord about these conditions so that they can take appropriate actions.

According to the UAE Property Law, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of properties, including addressing water damage which often leads to mold growth. If the issue is due to faulty plumbing or other property-related problems, the landlord should be held accountable and must address it promptly.

However, if the moisture source can be attributed to tenants' actions such as leakage from personal items or overwatering plants, then the responsibility might shift to you. Regardless of the cause, it's advisable for all parties involved to communicate openly about any mold issues.

It is also worth noting that in some cases, especially after heavy rains like those experienced recently, landlords might need to inspect and repair areas prone to moisture ingress. Tenants should document these instances with photos or videos if necessary to facilitate a fair resolution.

In conclusion, while both parties share responsibilities, tenants play an active role by monitoring their living spaces for mold growth and reporting any issues to the landlord. Prompt action can prevent further health complications for occupants and potential property damage. Should you require professional assistance, reach out to certified environmental remediation firms like Saniservice for expert guidance on handling mold in your apartment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 27, 2026 10:11 pm