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

Based on the UAE Civil Code and common tenancy law practices in Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation hinges on the source of the moisture.

The landlord is legally responsible for rectifying issues stemming from structural defects or inherent building problems. This includes leaks from external walls, faulty plumbing within the walls, inadequate waterproofing, or a chronic failure of the building's central air conditioning system that leads to excessive humidity. The obligation to maintain the property's structural integrity lies with the owner.

However, tenant responsibility is triggered by lifestyle-induced moisture. In a climate like Dubai's, with extreme humidity and year-round AC reliance, condensation is a primary mold catalyst. If the mold is a result of insufficient ventilation (e.g., not using exhaust fans, blocking AC vents with furniture, or failing to periodically air out the property), the tenant may be held liable for the damage and the cost of remediation.

In your Jumeirah Village Triangle case, the argument centers on the small window. A professional inspection is critical to determine the root cause. Our certified inspectors use moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and air quality tests to distinguish between a construction defect (landlord's duty) and condensation due to localized lack of airflow (a shared responsibility). The act of moving the furniture to discover it suggests the issue was pre-existing but concealed.

We strongly recommend a certified assessment to protect your interests. Document everything and present the inspector's report to your landlord. For a definitive diagnosis and a legally valid report, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.