What are Dubai tenant rights for landlord mold removal?« Back to Previous Page

Landlords in Dubai are generally responsible for addressing structural issues that cause mold, such as leaks in plumbing, roofs, or the building envelope, as well as ensuring the property's air conditioning and ventilation systems are functional. As a tenant, your responsibility is to maintain proper ventilation by using exhaust fans and running your AC to manage indoor humidity, which is a primary cause of mold in our climate.

For a significant hidden patch like the one behind your wardrobe, your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos. This creates a dated record of the issue. They are obligated to investigate and fix the source of the moisture. If the mold is due to a pre-existing leak or faulty AC drain pan, the remediation cost should fall to them.

Given the size of the patch and your children's symptoms, a professional inspection is highly recommended before any DIY attempt. Disturbing a large colony can aerosolize spores, potentially worsening air quality. An independent assessment can identify the exact mold species and moisture source, providing an objective report to share with your landlord. This is crucial for health concerns and for clarifying responsibility.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. However, for a health-related issue with documented evidence, most landlords will act to resolve it. For your family's safety, prioritize identifying the moisture source and getting a professional evaluation to determine the safest removal protocol.