Who is responsible for mold inspection from damp wall?« Back to Previous Page

Legally, the responsibility for addressing this damp wall and mold issue typically falls on the landlord under Dubai's rental law. The property must be maintained in a habitable condition, which includes addressing structural defects that lead to water intrusion and mold growth.

Landlords often cite inadequate AC usage as the cause, but a setting of 23°C is reasonable and should not cause significant condensation in a well-insulated building. The dampness you describe is more likely due to a hidden plumbing leak or, very commonly in Dubai, a breach in the external building envelope that allows humid air to infiltrate and condense inside the wall cavity.

For a case like this with visible growth and a damp feel, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. A proper assessment involves more than a visual check; it includes moisture mapping with a thermal camera and moisture meters to locate the water source and air quality testing to identify the mold species. This scientific evidence is crucial for determining the true cause and resolving any dispute with the landlord.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) about the problem, request an inspection, and ask for the issue to be remedied. If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. The cost of the initial diagnostic inspection is often a point of negotiation, but the landlord is generally responsible for the cost of repairs to the property itself.