Who is responsible for fixing mold in my apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code and the specific tenancy laws in Dubai, the responsibility for fixing mold in an apartment is generally placed on the landlord. This is because the landlord is legally obligated to provide a property that is habitable and in good repair at the start of the tenancy contract. Issues arising from structural defects, faulty construction, or inherent problems with the building's infrastructure (like a leaking central AC system or faulty external waterproofing that allows moisture ingress) are their responsibility.

However, the situation can become more nuanced. If the mold growth is a direct result of the tenant's actions—such as a failure to use the provided ventilation systems, not reporting a minor leak promptly which then escalated, or creating excessive moisture through lifestyle without adequate ventilation—the cost of remediation could potentially fall to the tenant. The humidity spike you mentioned is a key factor; while common in the UAE, buildings must be constructed to handle it with proper AC and ventilation.

Given your symptoms (stuffy noses, itchy eyes) and the visible growth, this is a serious health risk. Certain molds produce allergens and irritants that can cause exactly these reactions. I strongly recommend you do not attempt to remove it yourself, as disturbing it can release more spores and exacerbate the problem.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, as this starts a paper trail. Given the potential health implications and the need for a definitive cause assessment, I highly recommend a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector can identify the moisture source, test the mold type, and provide a detailed report. This report is crucial evidence to determine liability and ensure the remediation is done correctly.

For a professional assessment and to discuss your specific case, please call us at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537. We can provide the documentation you need to resolve the responsibility issue with your landlord.