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

Under Dubai's rental law, responsibility hinges on whether the issue is due to a structural defect or tenant lifestyle. Mold from a leaking pipe, faulty AC drainage, or a cracked external wall is the landlord's responsibility to repair. Mold primarily caused by lack of ventilation and humidity from daily living is typically the tenant's responsibility.

Your situation in Jumeirah is common here. The high humidity, especially in older buildings with less insulation, causes condensation on cooler walls. A wardrobe placed against an exterior wall severely restricts airflow, creating a perfect microclimate for mold. This is often viewed as a maintenance issue stemming from room usage.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing with photos. They should send a technician to inspect for and rule out any hidden leaks or AC condensation drain blockages, which would be their fix. If no underlying defect is found, the remediation likely falls to you.

For a patch spreading behind furniture, a professional inspection is wise to identify the species and its source. Remediation involves more than wiping it away; the area needs proper cleaning, application of antimicrobial agents, and addressing the moisture source. Improving airflow is critical—keep the wardrobe slightly away from the wall and use a dehumidifier, which is highly effective in Dubai's climate.

If the landlord confirms a structural issue but refuses to act, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. Document all your communication. For health reasons, don't delay addressing visible mold growth.