Who is responsible for mold repair in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, responsibility typically falls on the property owner for structural issues causing mold, like a leak from another unit or a faulty AC drain line. Tenants are responsible for damage resulting from negligence, like failing to use the AC or not reporting a leak promptly.

Given your description—the mold is concentrated at the ceiling near the AC vent and worsened with high humidity—this strongly suggests a condensation issue from an improperly insulated AC duct or a leak from the apartment above. This is a common problem in Dubai's climate where year-round AC use can create significant condensation. Ventilation is rarely the sole cause for a large, recurring patch in a specific location.

Document everything immediately with dated photos and send a formal written notification to your landlord via email or registered letter, requesting a professional inspection. For a case this visible, a proper assessment is needed to identify the moisture source. The landlord is generally obligated to investigate and repair the root cause under Dubai's rental laws.

If the landlord refuses, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC). They will often require evidence, so a professional inspection report detailing the moisture source can be decisive. The report can verify if the issue is condensation from the building's AC system (landlord's responsibility) or a leak from another unit (also the landlord's responsibility to coordinate with building management).