Am I or my landlord responsible for mold removal?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code and common tenancy contract stipulations, responsibility for mold removal hinges on the root cause. In your case, the damp, cold wall behind a wardrobe in a Marina apartment is a classic red flag.

If the mold is a result of your lifestyle—like inadequate ventilation despite running the AC, drying clothes indoors, or blocking airflow with furniture—then the responsibility for cleaning and remediation typically falls on you, the tenant. However, the issue you describe, especially the persistent dampness and cold feeling within the wall, strongly suggests a structural or building-related problem. This could be a leaking pipe within the wall, faulty insulation, or a breach in the building envelope allowing humid external air to condense on the cold interior surface (a thermal bridge). These are structural defects the landlord is legally obligated to rectify under the law.

My strong recommendation is to NOT attempt cleaning this yourself. Disturbing mold without proper containment can aerosolize spores, spreading the contamination. This requires professional assessment.

You need a certified mold inspection to definitively identify the moisture source. We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact cause without destructive testing. This report will be crucial evidence for your landlord, proving the issue is structural. If they are uncooperative, this report also strengthens your case with the Dubai Rental Dispute Center.

For a proper diagnosis and to understand your rights, get a professional evaluation. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an inspection.