Is landlord responsible for ceiling mold after rain?« Back to Previous Page

This situation is common in Dubai, especially after heavy rains, and the responsibility typically falls on the landlord. According to standard Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing leaks and water damage from the building's exterior that lead to internal mold. Since the issue appeared and worsened after a significant weather event, it points to a potential breach in the building envelope, not tenant-caused moisture.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, about the water damage and recurring mold. They are generally obligated to investigate and fix the source of the moisture intrusion, which is likely a leak from the roof or a compromised seal. Until that leak is repaired, any mold removal or repainting is a temporary fix, as it will just return.

For health reasons, given your husband's allergic reactions, a professional assessment is advisable. The mold type should be identified, as heavy post-rain growth can include species beyond common surface mildew. In Jumeirah Village Circle, high humidity and constant AC use can create significant condensation issues if the unit is undersized or not draining properly, exacerbating any existing leak.

The landlord should arrange for both the leak repair and the subsequent remediation. While tenants are often responsible for minor surface cleaning due to daily living (like bathroom condensation), a recurring issue stemming from a structural leak is the owner's responsibility. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.