Is landlord responsible for mold remediation in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing at night and I finally checked behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom in Jumeirah Village Circle. I found a big patch of black mold on the wall, probably from a slow leak we never noticed. We’ve been in this apartment for almost three years without any issues until now.
Is the landlord legally responsible for the mold remediation and repainting, or since we’ve lived here a while, is this something we have to handle and pay for ourselves?
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Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for the structural maintenance of the property. This includes issues arising from inherent building defects, such as leaking internal pipes, faulty AC condensation drainage, or seepage from external walls—common culprits for the mold you've described behind the wardrobe.
Since the mold appears to be the result of a hidden slow leak and not from your family's lifestyle (like excessive humidity without ventilation), the remediation and repair costs should fall on the landlord. The key factor is proving the source is a maintenance issue. However, after three years, the landlord might argue about the timeliness of reporting, so documentation is crucial. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the mold and the suspected leak source. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can spread spores. For a definitive report to present to the landlord, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. We can identify the exact moisture source through thermal imaging and moisture meters, test the mold type, and provide a certified remediation protocol. This report is often necessary to legally enforce the landlord's responsibility. For immediate assistance with inspection and testing, you can reach our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com. We operate throughout Dubai and can provide the documentation you need. |
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