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

In Dubai's rental market, the responsibility for mold remediation hinges on the source of the moisture. Under the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition and address structural defects. A patch of black mold growing on an interior wall, especially one that is expanding with the seasonal humidity, strongly indicates a persistent underlying moisture issue. This could be a leaking pipe within the wall, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation—all of which are structural maintenance issues falling squarely on the landlord.

As a tenant, your responsibility is typically limited to general upkeep, ventilation, and reporting any issues promptly. Attempting to clean the visible mold yourself is not advisable and is only a temporary fix. Using bleach or other DIY methods will not address the hidden moisture source, guaranteeing the mold will return, often worse than before. More critically, improper disturbance can aerosolize toxic mold spores, significantly elevating the health risks to you and your family, including respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and sinusitis.

The correct course of action is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, and request immediate professional assessment and remediation. Given Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use, which can create ideal conditions for mold, a professional inspection is crucial to diagnose the exact moisture source and extent of contamination. For a comprehensive assessment and a landlord-compliant remediation report, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection and ensure the problem is resolved correctly and permanently.