Is landlord responsible for mold from apartment humidity?« Back to Previous Page

This is an excellent and very common question for Dubai, especially in areas like Marina with high ambient humidity and proximity to the sea.

In the UAE, the responsibility for this issue is typically divided between landlord and tenant based on the source of the problem. The landlord is legally obligated under the Dubai Rental Law to provide a habitable property, which includes maintaining the structural integrity of the building and the proper functioning of all central AC systems. If the humidity and subsequent mold growth is a result of a structural defect (like water infiltration through the building envelope), a faulty central AC unit that isn't dehumidifying properly, or inadequate ventilation designed into the apartment, then the landlord is absolutely responsible for the remediation.

However, if the issue is determined to be primarily due to tenant lifestyle (e.g., insufficient use of the AC, drying clothes indoors, blocking air vents) exacerbating the already high ambient humidity, the responsibility may shift. A constantly running AC should be removing significant moisture; if humidity remains high indoors, it often points to an undersized, malfunctioning, or poorly maintained AC system—which is the landlord's duty to address.

For a closet-specific issue, the first step is to ensure the AC vent in the bedroom is fully open and that air can circulate freely into the closet (avoid overpacking it). Nevertheless, the presence of mold on personal items indicates a serious humidity problem that likely requires professional diagnosis. We strongly recommend a certified indoor environmental quality inspection to identify the precise moisture source and assign responsibility correctly.

For a thorough assessment and to understand your rights, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Letting mold proliferate can lead to health issues and further damage to your belongings.