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

As a certified indoor environmental quality consultant here in Dubai, this is a critical and unfortunately common issue post-flooding. The responsibility for mold remediation and repairs is not automatically the tenant's, despite what your landlord may claim.

Under UAE law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai (as amended), the landlord is obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition and carry out all necessary maintenance for the property’s main parts. This includes the building's structural integrity and essential systems. The key question is the source of the water ingress. If the persistent dampness is due to a pre-existing or building-related issue—such as inadequate drainage, foundational cracks, or faulty waterproofing that prevented proper water runoff—then the responsibility for remediation falls squarely on the landlord. They must address the root cause and the resulting damage, including moldy skirting boards and damp carpets.

However, if the flooding was solely due to an act of nature (like the record rainfall) and the building systems performed as designed, the responsibility for cleaning and restoring the interior might fall to the tenant, depending on your tenancy contract. But, the fact that it's still damp after three weeks strongly suggests an underlying drainage or drying issue that goes beyond simple cleanup.

The spreading black mold is a serious health hazard and indicates a chronic moisture problem. Do not attempt to handle this yourself. Proper remediation requires professional assessment to identify the moisture source, contain the affected area, and safely remove the contaminated materials.

You need a professional inspection to document the source of moisture and the extent of the damage. This report is crucial for formally notifying your landlord of their obligation. For immediate assistance with assessment and remediation, call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.