Is landlord responsible for mold removal cost in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Landlord responsibility for mold in Dubai rentals depends on the source of the moisture. Under the Dubai Rental Law, the landlord is obligated to maintain the property's structure. If the mold is due to a pre-existing structural issue like a leaking pipe, faulty waterproofing, or a building envelope defect, the landlord is legally required to address the repair and the resulting mold remediation.

The tenant is typically responsible for mold caused by their own actions, such as inadequate ventilation, failing to use the AC properly, or not reporting a minor leak that escalated. Given your description of a constantly running AC and a damp wall in Al Barsha, the source could be either party. The constant AC use suggests you are trying to manage humidity, but if the unit is undersized, faulty, or the drain line is clogged (a common issue here), it can create condensation that leads to mold, blurring the lines of responsibility.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property manager in writing with photos of the mold and the damp wall. They should arrange for a professional inspection to determine the moisture source. Do not attempt to clean significant black mold yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize spores. A proper assessment will identify the root cause and assign financial responsibility. For health concerns, especially with children, a certified mold inspection with lab analysis can identify the species and inform the necessary remediation scope.