Are we responsible for mold removal as tenants?« Back to Previous Page

Under UAE rental law, the responsibility for mold removal hinges on the cause of the problem. The landlord is responsible for fixing structural issues that lead to moisture intrusion, such as a leaking pipe inside the wall, a crack in the building envelope, or faulty external waterproofing. As the tenant, you are typically responsible for maintenance related to your own usage, like inadequate ventilation leading to condensation buildup.

Given your description—a wall behind a wardrobe getting worse with humidity—this strongly suggests an indoor air quality and condensation issue. Wardrooms placed against exterior walls in Dubai are common hotspots for mold because they restrict airflow, allowing cool air from the AC to create condensation on the warmer wall surface. This trapped moisture then feeds mold growth. This type of condensation problem is frequently considered a tenant's responsibility to manage through proper ventilation and humidity control.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos. They should arrange for a professional inspection to determine the root cause. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this will only temporarily remove the visible stain and not address the active colony or moisture source inside the wall. A proper assessment often requires moisture meters and thermal imaging to see inside the cavity.

If the inspection confirms the mold is due to a structural leak, the landlord must repair the leak and the resulting damage. If it is determined to be condensation due to room layout and ventilation, you may be responsible for the remediation cost. For serious cases, a company with its own microbiology lab can provide documented evidence of the species and source, which is crucial for any discussion with your landlord about liability.