Who is responsible for mold cleanup in a rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is typically responsible for addressing structural issues causing mold, such as faulty AC units, poor insulation, or water leaks from external sources. You are responsible for issues stemming from your own lifestyle, like failing to use the AC or blocking ventilation.

In Dubai's high humidity, constant AC use is necessary to manage moisture and prevent condensation, which is the primary cause of mold growth. If you've been running the AC as intended and the mold is due to a hidden leak or a malfunctioning unit that isn't properly draining, the responsibility falls on the landlord for remediation and repairs. The presence of mold on a wall behind furniture often indicates a condensation or leak issue within the wall cavity, not simply lack of airing out.

For a definitive answer, a professional inspection is crucial to identify the moisture source. This inspection can determine if the cause is a maintenance issue (landlord's duty) or occupant behavior (your duty). In many cases, the report from a certified mold inspector, which includes lab analysis of the species, provides the evidence needed to resolve liability disputes with your landlord.