Who is responsible for mold in my Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rented apartment is primarily determined by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Dubai Rental Law'. The core principle is identifying the source of the moisture.

If the mold growth, as you've described, is due to a structural issue—such as a hidden leak in the building's plumbing, a faulty external sealant allowing water ingress, or inadequate insulation leading to chronic condensation within the walls—then the financial responsibility for both the inspection and the remediation falls squarely on the landlord. They are obligated to maintain the property's structure and ensure it is habitable.

However, if the cause is determined to be tenant-related, such as a failure to use the provided air conditioning system adequately to control the extreme humidity, then the tenant may be liable. Your point about keeping the AC on is valid, but it is critical to ensure the unit is set to a sufficiently low temperature to manage the high moisture load, especially during the summer months when outdoor humidity can exceed 90%. Simply having it 'on' may not be enough if it's not effectively dehumidifying the space.

Given that the mold is in a closet—a confined space with restricted air circulation—this is a common hotspot for condensation-related growth, even with AC running elsewhere in the room. The only way to definitively establish liability is through a professional inspection. A certified mold assessor can conduct moisture mapping and air quality testing to pinpoint the exact source of the moisture.

For a definitive assessment and to protect your interests, I strongly recommend you contact a professional service like Saniservice. Their experts can provide a comprehensive report that will be crucial for discussions with your landlord. You can reach them for a consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.