Who is responsible for mold removal: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the scenario you've described, this is a complex issue with shared responsibilities, but the initial financial burden for the remediation and repairs most likely falls on the landlord.

In the UAE, the Civil Code and the Rental Law stipulate that the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's main structure and ensuring it is habitable. This includes addressing fundamental construction issues that lead to problems like water leaks or persistent dampness, which are the root causes of mold. The mold behind your wardrobe, exacerbated by the constant AC use necessary in Dubai's humid climate, strongly suggests a hidden defect, such as a leaking pipe in the wall, poor external waterproofing, or insufficient insulation leading to condensation—all structural issues the landlord must rectify.

However, as a tenant, you have a responsibility under your tenancy contract to perform routine maintenance and promptly report any issues. The fact that you discovered it only after three years could be used by the landlord to argue negligence, though the hidden nature of the mold behind furniture is a strong counterpoint. Your wife's health symptoms further underscore the urgency and seriousness of the situation.

Your immediate course of action should be:
1. Formally notify your landlord/property management company in writing with photographs, detailing the issue and its impact on health.
2. Recommend a professional mold inspection. DIY assessments are insufficient. A certified inspector, like those at Saniservice, can use moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint the exact moisture source and assess contamination levels, providing a definitive report for the landlord.
3. Do not attempt removal yourself. Improper remediation can aerosolize spores, worsening air quality and health risks.

The landlord should engage a professional remediation company to safely remove the mold, address the underlying moisture source, and repaint the affected area. For a case of this severity, we strongly recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment and a clear, professional remediation plan to present to your landlord.