Is landlord responsible for mold removal in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code, particularly Law No. (5) of 1985, a landlord's fundamental obligation is to provide a tenant with a habitable property that is fit for its intended purpose. The law stipulates that the landlord is responsible for all major repairs necessary to maintain the property's core structure and essential systems, unless the tenancy contract explicitly states otherwise.

In the context of your situation in Silicon Oasis, the crucial factor is determining the root cause of the mold. Mold growth due to a structural defect, such as a hidden water leak from plumbing, a crack in the building envelope, or faulty waterproofing that allows moisture ingress, is unequivocally the landlord's responsibility to rectify and remediate. The recent humidity spike you mentioned is a key aggravating factor, but it typically acts upon a pre-existing moisture problem.

However, if the mold is solely a result of tenant-related activities—such as inadequate ventilation, failing to use the AC to control humidity, or blocking airflow in closets—the responsibility for remediation could fall on you. Dubai's climate, with its extreme humidity and reliance on year-round air conditioning to manage condensation, makes proper ventilation a critical tenant responsibility.

Given the description of black, fuzzy patches that are worsening, we strongly recommend a professional inspection to identify the precise moisture source. This forensic step is essential for correctly attributing liability. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the cause definitively. Do not attempt to remove significant growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the problem.

For a conclusive assessment and to discuss your case with the landlord from a position of expert knowledge, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can provide a detailed report that clearly outlines liability for the remediation process.