Who is responsible for mold in a rental: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the source of the moisture causing the problem. The landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for addressing structural defects that lead to mold growth. This includes issues like penetrating damp from a leaking roof, faulty external waterproofing, or defective air conditioning systems that cause condensation within the walls.

In your case, the mold spreading from a closet on an external wall, exacerbated by heavy dew, strongly suggests an underlying structural or insulation issue. This is a clear indication of a building envelope failure, which falls squarely under the landlord's responsibility to repair. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, detailing the issue and requesting a professional inspection and remediation.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining proper ventilation by running AC consistently to control humidity, promptly reporting any water leaks, and ensuring that daily activities (like drying clothes indoors) do not contribute excessively to moisture levels. Attempting a DIY fix with a surface cleaner is not recommended, as it will only address the visible growth and not the hidden moisture source, allowing it to return quickly and potentially spread further.

Given the health concerns for your toddler and the high humidity of the Dubai climate, a professional assessment is crucial. We recommend contacting Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com. Our certified inspectors can identify the exact moisture source, assess the extent of contamination, and provide a definitive report that outlines the necessary remediation steps, which you can then present to your landlord.