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

This is a very common issue in Dubai, particularly in older buildings or those with design flaws that trap humidity. Determining legal responsibility hinges on the root cause of the moisture, which is often a point of contention between landlords and tenants.

Under UAE law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai (as amended), the landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for rectifying defects in the building's structure and central systems. This includes issues like leaking pipes in the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or defective AC ductwork that causes condensation—all common culprits for hidden mold growth behind furniture.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property through "ordinary use." If the mold is proven to be a direct result of tenant negligence—such as failing to use the AC, blocking ventilation grilles, or creating excessive indoor humidity (e.g., from drying laundry indoors without ventilation)—the cost of remediation may fall to the tenant.

Given your description, the situation is complex. You run the AC, but in Dubai's climate, AC units must be set to a sufficiently low temperature to effectively remove humidity from the air; simply running it on fan mode is insufficient. Condensation can also form on cold walls behind large furniture like wardrobes if air circulation is impeded. The location suggests a possible pre-existing envelope or insulation issue.

Crucially, a professional inspection is the definitive step. A certified mold assessor can identify the moisture source through tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters. This technical report is vital evidence for determining liability. Do not attempt to remove a "huge patch" yourself, as improper remediation can spread harmful spores throughout your home.

For a definitive diagnosis and a legally valid report to present to your landlord, I strongly recommend you contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive indoor environmental inspection. Our team will pinpoint the exact cause and provide the documentation needed to resolve the responsibility question with your landlord.