Is mold removal a tenant or landlord responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Mold removal responsibility in Dubai rentals depends on the cause, as outlined in Law No. 26 of 2007. If the mold is due to a structural issue like a leaking pipe, faulty window seal, or a problem with the AC unit's installation or drainage, it is the landlord's responsibility to fix the source and remediate the damage.

However, if the issue is caused by tenant behavior—such as insufficient ventilation, failing to use AC, or placing furniture directly against walls where condensation forms—the tenant is typically liable for the cleanup. In your Deira apartment, the mold behind the wardrobe from AC condensation is a common issue in our humid climate. Year-round AC use creates significant condensation, and blocking walls prevents air circulation, allowing mold to thrive.

For a large patch, a professional inspection is recommended to identify the exact moisture source and assess potential spread inside the wall cavity. In many cases, both parties share responsibility: the landlord must ensure the AC drainage is functioning correctly, and the tenant must maintain reasonable ventilation.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property manager in writing with photos. They should send a technician to inspect the AC drainage line and the external wall for leaks. For the remediation itself, proper mold removal involves more than wiping it; the area needs cleaning with antimicrobial agents and addressing the moisture source to prevent regrowth. A company with a microbiology lab can verify the mold is gone with post-remediation testing, which is useful for documentation with your landlord.