Who is responsible for mold inspection in Dubai rentals?« Back to Previous Page

Tenancy law in Dubai generally places responsibility for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property on the landlord. This includes issues arising from building envelope leaks, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation that leads to condensation—a primary cause of mold in Dubai's humid climate. Since your mold is on an exterior wall, it is highly likely caused by a condensation issue or an underlying leak, which is the landlord's obligation to repair.

You are responsible for maintaining the apartment's cleanliness and ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent humidity buildup, which can be challenging with year-round AC use. However, the appearance of a persistent patch suggests a structural cause beyond normal daily living.

For a definitive determination of the source, a professional inspection is the correct first step. A proper inspection involves moisture mapping and thermal imaging to identify the exact source of the water intrusion, not just a visual assessment. You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) with clear photos of the mold and request they arrange and pay for a professional diagnostic inspection to identify the root cause.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference the rental contract and escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For health safety, do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as disturbing it can release spores. The priority is identifying and stopping the moisture source first; cleaning is secondary.