Who is responsible for mold in a Dubai rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Based on Dubai's rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the responsibility for maintenance is split between tenant and landlord. The landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the building and the maintenance of the main systems, including the central air conditioning. If the high humidity and subsequent mold growth in your JLT apartment is a result of a structural defect—like inadequate insulation in that outer wall, water infiltration from the outside, or a faulty AC system that isn't dehumidifying properly—then the landlord is legally obligated to address and rectify the root cause.

However, as a tenant, you are responsible for general upkeep and reporting issues promptly. If the dampness is exacerbated by a lack of ventilation (e.g., keeping the closet door closed constantly) or lifestyle factors, you may be expected to mitigate it with solutions like a dehumidifier.

Given the symptoms you describe—dampness on an outer wall and active mold growth—this strongly indicates an underlying issue beyond simple condensation. The persistent high ambient humidity is just the trigger, not the cause. I strongly recommend a professional inspection to identify the exact moisture source. Our certified experts can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including thermal imaging and moisture mapping, to determine if the fault lies with the building envelope or the AC system. This report is crucial evidence for your landlord.

For immediate advice and to schedule a diagnostic visit, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not let this continue, as mold can spread rapidly and pose health risks.