Is landlord responsible for mold without a window?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. A bedroom without any window is a significant habitability concern and likely violates building codes. The landlord's argument about ventilation is invalid if the room's design fundamentally prevents it.

Black mold growth after a water intrusion event, like the January rains, is typically the landlord's responsibility to remediate. The initial moisture ingress is a structural or maintenance issue. Persistent mold can cause the respiratory irritation you're describing in children.

Your first step should be to formally notify the landlord in writing (email is best), detailing the issue, its progression since the rain, and its impact on your children's health. Clearly state that the room lacks a window and proper ventilation. Request immediate, professional mold remediation.

If they refuse, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For a case like this, documentation is critical. Photograph the mold's spread over time. A professional indoor environmental assessment from a company with a microbiology lab can provide a definitive report linking the mold to the building's moisture issue, which is powerful evidence for the RDC. The cost of this assessment is often recoupable from the landlord if you win your case. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper removal can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem.