Is mold in my rental apartment the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Excellent question, and a very common issue here in Dubai, especially in areas like JVC where humidity can be a real battle, even with AC running 24/7.

Under the UAE's Rental Law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is fundamentally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues with the main building structure, like the walls, plumbing, and AC systems, which are the primary causes of mold. If the mold growth is a result of a pre-existing leak, poor insulation, or a faulty AC unit that isn't dehumidifying properly, the remediation cost falls squarely on the landlord.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing (email is best for a paper trail). Clearly describe the issue, include photos of the mold behind the wardrobe, and mention the persistent high humidity. Politely request an inspection to identify the root cause—this is crucial. Simply wiping the mold away is ineffective if the moisture source isn't fixed.

While you wait for a response, there are temporary measures you can take to mitigate the spread. First, move the wardrobe away from the wall to improve air circulation. Second, if you have a dehumidifier, run it in the bedroom; this is far more effective than AC alone at controlling ambient moisture. Do NOT attempt to bleach or scrub the mold yourself, as this can aerosolize the spores and exacerbate the problem for you.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your landlord addresses the root cause, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. We can identify the exact moisture source and provide a certified report you can give to your landlord, which often speeds up the resolution process. Feel free to call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a consultation.