Is mold remediation the tenant or landlord's responsibility in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold remediation in Dubai depends on the source of the moisture. The general rule is that tenants are responsible for damage they cause, while landlords are responsible for structural or maintenance issues with the property itself.

If the dampness is due to a building defect like leaking pipes, faulty AC drainage, or inadequate ventilation, the landlord is typically responsible for the repairs and the resulting remediation. Given your location in Dubai Marina, where high humidity and continuous AC use can cause significant condensation issues, the source could very well be a systemic building problem. The persistent damp feeling you describe, especially in a closet against an exterior wall, is a common symptom of such issues.

However, if the mold growth is solely due to tenant behavior—like failing to use the AC to control humidity, blocking ventilation grilles, or not reporting a leak promptly—the responsibility could fall to you. Document everything: take photos, note the timeline, and report the issue to your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. They are obligated to investigate the cause.

For a definitive answer on the source, a professional inspection is advisable. An inspector can identify if the issue is condensation from poor insulation, a leak from an adjacent apartment, or an underperforming AC system. This evidence is crucial for determining liability. In many cases, resolving the underlying moisture problem is the landlord's duty, while cleaning the affected belongings may fall to the tenant.