Landlord or tenant responsible for hidden mold in apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law, the landlord is typically responsible for resolving issues related to the building's structure and maintenance, which includes hidden dampness and mold resulting from leaks, faulty insulation, or inadequate waterproofing. Since the mold is behind a built-in wardrobe and you run a dehumidifier, this strongly suggests an underlying structural moisture issue, not tenant-caused neglect.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos. They are obligated to investigate and fix the source of the moisture, such as a leaking pipe or seepage from an external wall—common issues in Dubai's climate due to condensation and high humidity. The cost of the remediation for the structure itself should fall to them.

However, the responsibility for your personal belongings, like the wardrobe, and any temporary relocation may depend on your tenancy contract. For a problem of this scale, a professional inspection is crucial to diagnose the exact moisture source and mold type. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as disturbing large patches can spread spores. The remediation process must address the root cause, or the mold will simply return.