Who is responsible for mold removal in my rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the cause of the moisture. The landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for rectifying any issues related to the building's structural integrity or maintenance. This includes fixing leaks from external walls, faulty plumbing within the walls, or a compromised roof or ceiling that allows water ingress. The persistent high humidity in Dubai, especially during summer months, can exacerbate these underlying issues, leading to the condensation and mold growth you're describing on the ceiling.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining the property through adequate ventilation to mitigate the effects of the climate. In Dubai, this means consistently using the air conditioning to control humidity levels, ensuring extractor fans are operational in bathrooms and kitchens, and not blocking ventilation grilles. If the mold is deemed to be a result of tenant negligence in this regard—such as not using the AC, drying clothes indoors, or, as in your case, packing a closet tightly and restricting airflow—the cost of cleaning may fall to you.

Given that the mold is spreading from the ceiling down the wall, this strongly suggests an underlying moisture issue beyond simple condensation from daily living. The pattern indicates a potential leak from the roof or the apartment above, or severe condensation within the ceiling void due to poor insulation, which are structural landlord responsibilities.

We strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper remediation can aerosolize spores and worsen allergic reactions and contamination. You must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, preferably with photographic evidence, and request a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector can identify the precise moisture source, assess the extent of the contamination, and provide a definitive report on liability.

For a comprehensive inspection and expert remediation to ensure the problem is solved at its source, we recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an assessment. Present this report to your landlord to confirm their responsibility before your lease renewal.