Is my landlord responsible for fixing mold behind sofa?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, this is a serious mold infestation requiring immediate professional attention. In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically dictated by the cause of the moisture. According to standard tenancy contract interpretations, the landlord is responsible for repairing issues related to the building's structure and maintenance, such as water ingress from external leaks or faulty AC systems. However, if the dampness is a result of tenant behavior (e.g., lack of ventilation), the responsibility may fall on you.

Given the timeline correlating with the heavy rains, this strongly suggests an underlying structural or waterproofing issue, such as a leaking pipe within the wall or compromised external sealing. This is almost certainly the landlord's responsibility to rectify. Crucially, wiping it with vinegar is a common but ineffective DIY approach. Vinegar only addresses surface discoloration and does not kill the root structure (hyphae) of the mold, nor does it address the moisture source, which is why it returns more aggressively.

The persistent musty odor indicates active microbial volatile organic compound (MVOC) production, a sign of a thriving colony. The Dubai climate, with its extreme humidity and reliance on year-round AC, creates massive condensation risks if systems are not properly balanced or if there are insulation flaws, exacerbating such problems.

We strongly advise you to stop any DIY attempts and request a professional inspection immediately. A certified mold inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species (some can be toxigenic) and use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint the exact moisture source. This report is vital evidence for formally requesting remediation from your landlord.

For a comprehensive assessment and to generate the necessary report for your landlord, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Proper remediation involves source identification, containment, professional-grade antimicrobial application, and humidity control, not superficial cleaning.