Is landlord responsible for bedroom mold and repainting?« Back to Previous Page

That black mold behind your wardrobe is a common issue in Dubai bedrooms, especially on exterior walls during high humidity periods. The condensation forms when the cold from your AC meets the warm, moist air infiltrating from outside.

Under UAE tenancy law, the landlord is typically responsible for fixing the underlying cause of the mold, which is considered a structural or maintenance issue. This includes repairing any external water leaks, addressing inadequate insulation, or fixing faulty AC drainage that is creating the dampness. You should notify them in writing immediately, as delaying repairs can lead to further property damage.

The responsibility for repainting, however, can be less clear-cut. Once the moisture source is permanently resolved and the mold is professionally remediated, the repainting cost may fall to the tenant if the damage is deemed to have resulted from a lack of ventilation or tenant maintenance. However, if the landlord was slow to address a reported leak, the argument for them covering the repaint is stronger.

For now, move the wardrobe away from the wall to improve air circulation. Do not attempt to clean it with bleach, as this can worsen airborne spores. A professional inspection can identify the exact moisture source and provide a documented report, which is crucial for discussions with your landlord. This evidence clarifies whether the issue is due to a building defect or lifestyle factors, which determines financial responsibility.