Who handles and pays for mold in a rented apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold removal in a rented apartment depends on the source of the moisture. In Dubai's humid climate, especially in coastal areas like Dubai Marina, this is a common issue driven by condensation from constant AC use and high ambient humidity.

Landlord responsibility: The landlord is typically responsible for fixing the underlying cause if it's a structural issue, such as a leaking pipe inside the wall, faulty waterproofing, or a building envelope defect that allows water ingress. The repair and subsequent mold remediation should be covered by them.

Tenant responsibility: You are generally responsible for issues stemming from daily living habits. This includes inadequate ventilation leading to condensation buildup, not using exhaust fans, or failing to report a minor leak in a timely manner that then escalates. The consistent use of AC is actually a tenant responsibility to control humidity.

For the wall behind the wardrobe, the location suggests a potential cold spot where condensation formed due to lack of air circulation. The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing with photographs. They should arrange a professional inspection to determine the moisture source, as treating the mold without fixing the cause is ineffective. A proper assessment can identify if the wall has a hidden leak or if it's purely an environmental condensation issue, which will dictate financial responsibility. For extensive growth, professional remediation is advised to safely remove it and apply antimicrobial coatings to prevent recurrence.