Is landlord responsible for bedroom mold from possible leak?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility typically depends on the source of the moisture. Since the mold appeared after a major storm and is on an exterior wall, this strongly suggests a building envelope leak, which is the landlord's responsibility to repair under Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, about the suspected leak and resulting mold growth. They are generally obligated to address the root cause—the water intrusion. For a case this severe, a professional inspection is critical to identify the exact entry point and assess the full extent. Mold behind a wall can be far more widespread than what is visible.

While the landlord handles the structural repair, the responsibility for cleaning the mold itself can depend on your tenancy contract. However, given the health implications—especially with your allergic reactions—addressing it promptly is essential. Do not attempt to clean a large patch yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize spores and worsen air quality. Proper remediation involves containment, HEPA filtration, and removal of affected porous materials.

The Dubai climate, with its high humidity and constant AC use, creates a perfect environment for mold to flourish from any small leak. Until the leak is fixed, a dehumidifier in the room can help reduce further spread.