Is landlord responsible for mold removal in rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, particularly in rental properties, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically governed by the lease agreement and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai Law'.

The landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity of the property and for maintaining the building's core systems. This includes ensuring that the apartment is habitable and free from defects that existed prior to your tenancy. If the mold growth is a direct result of a structural issue, such as a hidden water leak from plumbing within the walls, a faulty sewage pipe, or inadequate waterproofing that was present before you moved in, then the landlord is unequivocally responsible for the repairs and subsequent mold remediation.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and hygienic condition. Given Dubai's extreme humidity and constant AC use, which leads to significant condensation, proper ventilation is a critical tenant responsibility. A weak bathroom fan exacerbates this. If the mold is solely due to a lack of ventilation and moisture control—activities within your control, like using the fan during and after showers—you may be held liable for the cleanup.

For a patch behind the toilet, the cause must be professionally diagnosed. It could be a simple condensation issue or a sign of a leaking wax seal or pipe. We strongly recommend a professional inspection to determine the root cause. Attempting removal yourself can spread spores and fail to address the underlying moisture problem, leading to rapid regrowth.

For a definitive assessment and compliant remediation, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. We can identify the source and provide a detailed report, which is essential for determining liability with your landlord.