Is landlord responsible for mold on wardrobe in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord's responsibility depends on the cause. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for repairs related to the structural integrity of the building, including fixing leaks from plumbing, roofs, or external walls. You are typically responsible for maintenance of the interior space and appliances.

Your situation—mold on an exterior wall wardrobe—strongly suggests a hidden leak or severe condensation, which is a structural issue. The first step is to immediately notify your landlord or property manager in writing (email is best), include clear photos, and request a professional inspection to identify the moisture source. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can release spores and the underlying cause must be fixed first.

The constant cold from the AC hitting the wall likely creates significant condensation in our humid climate, providing the moisture mold needs to grow. A professional inspection can determine if this is purely condensation-related or if there's a leak. For a case this advanced, a proper remediation protocol is needed to safely remove the biomass and treat the area after the moisture issue is resolved. The landlord should address the root cause; the cost of the cleanup may be negotiated depending on the inspection's findings.