Is landlord responsible for mold in Jumeirah villa?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing issues like leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or cracks in the external walls that lead to persistent dampness and mould growth. The constant damp walls you describe, despite running a dehumidifier, strongly suggest an underlying structural moisture issue, not just condensation from daily living.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the mould and the damp walls. They are typically obligated to investigate and repair the source of the water intrusion. The remediation of the mould itself is often tied to who is responsible for the cause.

However, the argument can arise if the landlord claims the dampness is due to tenant negligence, like inadequate ventilation. In a Dubai villa, this is a difficult position for them to uphold. Our climate means year-round AC is necessary, and JVC villas are prone to high groundwater levels and humidity-driven condensation within walls, which are structural concerns. Merely not opening windows is rarely the sole cause of significant, recurring dampness.

For your health concerns and to strengthen your case, a professional inspection is crucial. An independent assessment can identify the precise moisture source (e.g., rising damp, AC drain leak, capillary action) and provide a documented report. This evidence is key for negotiating with the landlord. Given the persistent cough in children, do not attempt to remove the large patch yourself, as this can aerosolize spores. A proper remediation protocol from a certified company will address the root cause, remove the contamination safely, and apply treatments to prevent recurrence. The cost responsibility for this ultimately depends on the inspection's findings, but the initial burden to investigate and fix the property's defects lies with the landlord.