Is landlord responsible for bedroom wall mold in Jumeirah?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues like persistent dampness and mold that result from building envelope defects, such as leaking pipes, faulty external waterproofing, or inadequate insulation.

However, the responsibility can become less clear if the mold growth is determined to be a result of tenant lifestyle, such as chronic lack of ventilation or blocking AC units with furniture. The wall behind a wardrobe is a common trouble spot in Jumeirah due to high humidity and the way cold exterior walls can cause condensation when warm, moist indoor air meets them. This is often exacerbated by placing large furniture against the wall, which restricts airflow and creates a perfect, stagnant environment for mold.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos, and request a professional inspection to determine the root cause. Do not simply paint over it. A proper assessment will identify if there's a hidden leak from plumbing or the exterior, or if it's a condensation issue. For health safety and to prevent damage to your belongings, moving the wardrobe away from the wall and ensuring the room is well-ventilated can help temporarily.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center in Dubai (RDC). For a definitive cause, a certified mold inspection that includes moisture mapping and air/surface sampling can provide the evidence needed to clearly establish liability.