Is landlord responsible for mold from hidden leak in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, landlord responsibility for mold hinges on identifying the source of the moisture. If the mold is definitively caused by a structural issue, like a hidden pipe leak within the wall, then the landlord is typically responsible for the repair under Dubai rental law. They must address the root cause to make the property habitable.

However, tenants are often responsible for remediation of the mold growth itself and any damage to their belongings, especially if the issue was exacerbated by tenant actions like poor ventilation. The UAE's high humidity and year-round AC use can cause condensation that fuels mold, complicating blame.

Your first step is to document everything with photos and formally notify your landlord or building management in writing about the suspected leak. Do not attempt to clean it until the source is identified, as disturbing it can spread spores. For a hidden leak, a professional inspection with a thermal moisture meter is needed to verify the wall's moisture levels and pinpoint the leak's origin. This evidence is crucial for determining liability. If the landlord disputes responsibility, this professional report provides the concrete evidence required.