Tenant or landlord responsible for mold in humid apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation typically depends on identifying the source of the moisture. Under standard tenancy contracts (Ejari), landlords are responsible for the property's structural integrity and maintenance of central AC systems, which includes fixing leaks or faults that cause condensation and mold. Tenants are generally responsible for damage resulting from their own negligence or failure to maintain adequate ventilation.

Given the climate, mold behind furniture in a humid studio is a common issue often linked to condensation from the wall's cold surface meeting warm, stagnant humid air. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, as this triggers their obligation to investigate. They should send a technician to assess if the AC is functioning correctly and if there's an underlying leak or insulation issue.

If the AC is struggling and the humidity is excessive, the root cause may be a faulty unit unable to dehumidify properly, which is likely the landlord's responsibility to repair. However, the act of cleaning the visible mold and ensuring furniture isn't pressed directly against the wall to allow airflow often falls to the tenant. For extensive growth, a professional inspection is wise to identify the species and the exact moisture source, as this report can clearly define responsibility. The Dubai Land Department is the ultimate arbiter for tenancy disputes if an agreement cannot be reached.