Is landlord responsible for mold behind furniture?« Back to Previous Page

The discovery of significant mold growth behind furniture in a Deira apartment is a serious health and structural concern, especially with children exhibiting respiratory symptoms. In the UAE, landlord-tenant responsibilities for mold remediation are primarily dictated by the lease agreement and the principle of "tenantable condition."

Typically, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes within the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation design. The tenant is generally responsible for issues stemming from their own actions, like failing to use the provided AC system properly, blocking ventilation grilles, or not reporting water leaks promptly.

However, the extreme humidity in Dubai is a key factor. While you must use the AC to control humidity, persistent mold growth behind furniture often indicates a pre-existing condensation problem or a hidden leak that the landlord must address. The location behind your sofa does not automatically absolve the landlord if the root cause is a structural issue.

Your immediate action should be to formally notify the landlord in writing with clear photographs. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize toxic spores, exacerbating your family's health issues. For a definitive assessment of the root cause and to establish liability, a professional inspection is essential. We at Saniservice use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the source—whether it's a hidden leak or condensation due to a thermal bridge in the wall—and provide a detailed report that can be used to formally engage the landlord.

For a professional inspection and remediation quote to resolve this safely, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.