Is landlord responsible for bedroom wall mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The wall behind our wardrobe in the bedroom has these black splotches that seem to be spreading. We’ve been in this Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for almost a year, but this only started appearing after the heavy humidity last month. My landlord is saying it's our fault for not ventilating properly, but the AC is always on. Are we actually responsible for fixing this, or is this the landlord's job to sort out?
Posted by Chiara Kaminski
Asked on March 15, 2026 12:50 pm
Based on UAE law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, the responsibility for structural repairs and issues related to the building's envelope falls squarely on the landlord.

What you're describing—mold growth on an external wall behind furniture—is a classic sign of a moisture intrusion issue. The heavy humidity likely exacerbated a pre-existing problem, such as a hidden pipe leak or, more commonly in JVC buildings, inadequate waterproofing or a minor crack in the external wall allowing capillary action. Your use of AC, which dehumidifies the air, actually helps prevent mold, not cause it. While tenants are responsible for general maintenance and ventilation, a persistent issue like this on a structural element points to a building defect.

The landlord is obligated to address the root cause. However, you must formally notify them in writing of the issue to trigger their responsibility. We strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and exacerbate health risks.

For a definitive assessment and a professional report that can be presented to your landlord, a certified mold inspection is crucial. We can identify the exact moisture source and species of mold, which is vital for proper remediation. Feel free to reach out to us for an inspection; just call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. A professional report will clearly outline the cause and necessary corrective actions, strengthening your case with the property owner.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 16, 2026 6:54 pm