Is landlord responsible for damp mold in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, in Dubai, your landlord is typically responsible for fixing the source of damp mold, especially if it's due to a structural issue like a leaking pipe, faulty waterproofing, or a building envelope defect. The responsibility to maintain the property in a habitable condition falls on the landlord under Dubai rental law.

However, the situation can become complicated. If the mold growth was caused by tenant behavior—such as insufficient use of AC leading to condensation, blocking ventilation, or not reporting a leak promptly—the cost of remediation might be shared. Since the wall feels damp, this strongly points to an underlying moisture source from the property itself, which is the landlord's responsibility.

The fastest way to resolve this is to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) immediately. Include clear photos of the mold and the damp wall. Describe your children's symptoms. Request that they send a professional mold inspection company to identify and fix the moisture source. Do not attempt to simply clean it yourself, as this will not address the root cause and it may return.

For a case involving children's health and visible dampness, a professional inspection is highly recommended. They will use moisture meters and thermal cameras to find the hidden source of the water intrusion. Remediation involves fixing that leak, properly drying the structure, and then removing the contaminated materials. Given Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use, condensation behind furniture placed against external walls is a common issue, but the dampness you feel suggests something more significant.

If your landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center Dubai (RDC). Having a professional report from a certified mold inspector will provide crucial evidence for your case.