Who is responsible for mold under the kitchen sink?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, the responsibility for addressing mold issues can sometimes be ambiguous and may depend on several factors including the lease agreement, property ownership, and local regulations. It's a good practice to first assess if there is indeed mold present under your kitchen sink and understand its extent before determining who should take action.

Mold growth often requires moisture, and given that you've noticed a musty smell and humidity issues in the area even with air conditioning on, it suggests that moisture might be an issue. The key steps here involve assessing the situation correctly and taking appropriate actions based on your rights as a tenant under local laws and regulations.

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, building owners are typically responsible for maintaining common areas such as hallways, stairwells, and communal spaces. However, within private tenancies, responsibilities can be more nuanced. It is advised to review your lease agreement or contact your landlord to clarify who maintains the area under the kitchen sink.

If you believe the mold issue is due to a breach in the property's condition or maintenance, you might want to inform your landlord and provide evidence of the problem. According to the Federal Law No. 30 of 2004 on Civil Transactions, tenants have the right to request repairs from their landlords if the premises are not in a habitable state.

It’s also recommended that you address this issue promptly as mold can pose health risks and deteriorate the structural integrity of your property over time. If the area is consistently humid despite air conditioning, a dehumidifier might help mitigate moisture levels temporarily but should not be seen as a long-term solution.

In serious cases or if you find it challenging to resolve with your landlord, seeking professional inspection services can provide clarity and ensure appropriate remedial actions are taken. Companies like Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) specialize in such assessments and can offer solutions tailored to the specific conditions of your property.

Remember, maintaining a dry environment is key to preventing mold growth. Regularly inspecting areas prone to moisture, such as under sinks and around plumbing fixtures, can help catch issues early before they escalate into larger problems.