Is landlord responsible for mold on exterior wall?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent amendments, the responsibility for mold remediation hinges on the root cause. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structure and address issues arising from inherent building defects. A mold patch on an exterior wall strongly suggests a potential structural failure, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, a crack in the building envelope, or inadequate insulation leading to significant thermal bridging and condensation.

Given the climate in Jumeirah Village Circle, with its extreme humidity and reliance on year-round air conditioning, condensation on cold exterior walls is a common catalyst for mold growth behind furniture like wardrobes. However, the persistent musty odor indicates an active and likely established colony that may have spread beyond the visible surface.

Attempting a DIY fix is highly inadvisable. Bleach or store-bought solutions will only remove surface discoloration, not the root cause or the hidden hyphae within the wall. You risk inadvertently dispersing spores and exacerbating the contamination.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and including photographs. They should arrange for a professional inspection to diagnose the moisture source. If the cause is determined to be structural, they are responsible for the repairs and subsequent remediation.

For an accurate assessment and to protect your health, I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection. Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to definitively identify the source and extent of the problem, providing a report that can be used to clarify responsibility with your landlord. For immediate advice or to schedule an inspection, please call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.