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

That's a very common and serious concern here in Dubai, especially with our current humidity levels. From what you describe, the location behind the wardrobe on an exterior wall is a classic sign of a condensation issue, potentially exacerbated by thermal bridging in the building envelope.

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily dictated by the rental contract and the cause of the moisture. Generally, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property. If the mold is a result of a construction defect, inadequate insulation in the exterior wall, or a leaking central AC system that is part of the building's infrastructure, the landlord is obligated to address it. The tenant is typically responsible for damage caused by their own negligence, like failing to use the AC properly to control humidity, which is a necessity here.

However, the keyword is "hidden." Since you discovered it behind a fixed fixture, it strongly suggests a building-related moisture source. You must inform your landlord or property manager immediately in writing. Do not attempt to remove it yourself with bleach, as this can exacerbate the problem and release spores. The landlord should arrange for a professional inspection to determine the exact cause and scope. We use thermal imaging and borescopes to investigate inside walls without destructive testing. This evidence is crucial for determining liability.

For a proper assessment and to document the issue for your landlord, I highly recommend a certified mold inspection. Our teams are equipped to provide a full report on the source and extent of the contamination, which is often needed to get the landlord to act.

Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 to schedule an inspection. We can identify if it's just a surface issue or a sign of a major building defect.