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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily governed by the rental contract and the Civil Code. Typically, the landlord is responsible for addressing structural or maintenance-related issues that lead to mold, such as leaks in the building's plumbing, cracks in the exterior walls, or faulty air conditioning systems that cause condensation. The tenant is generally responsible for issues arising from their own negligence, such as failing to use the AC properly to control humidity or creating conditions that exacerbate moisture.

Given Dubai's high humidity levels, especially during the summer months, and the year-round reliance on AC, condensation is a common cause of mold in closets and behind furniture. Your situation in Jumeirah, where the mold has appeared in a closet and worsened with the humidity, suggests a potential lack of ventilation and a microclimate conducive to mold growth. This is a very common issue here.

The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photographs, and request an immediate inspection. Do not attempt to remediate it yourself with bleach, as this can often worsen the problem by not addressing the underlying moisture source and spreading spores. A professional inspection is crucial to determine the exact cause, extent, and required remediation protocol.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your landlord addresses it correctly, I recommend a certified mold inspection from a company like Saniservice. They can identify the moisture source, test the mold type, and provide a scope of work for remediation, which you can then present to your landlord. For immediate advice or to schedule an inspection, you can call them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.