Is landlord responsible for mold behind wardrobe in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold remediation in a Dubai rental property depends on the cause. Under the Dubai Rental Law, the landlord is typically responsible for structural repairs and issues arising from inherent building defects or faulty installations, like a leaking pipe within the wall. The tenant is usually responsible for damages caused by their own negligence or failure to maintain the property properly, such as not using the AC adequately to control humidity.

Given the location behind a wardrobe and the recent extreme humidity, the cause is likely condensation from the temperature difference between the cool room and the warm wall, exacerbated by poor air circulation. This is a common issue in Dubai's climate. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing with clear photos. They should arrange for a professional inspection to determine the exact moisture source. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this can worsen airborne spores and only removes surface discoloration, not the root cause.

Before renewal, it is in both parties' interest to resolve this. A proper fix involves identifying the moisture source, remediating the mold with containment protocols to prevent cross-contamination, and repairing the wall. If the landlord disputes responsibility, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai, but starting with a documented, professional assessment of the cause is crucial. For a one-year-old issue coinciding with peak humidity, the landlord will likely be responsible for the repair.