Is landlord or tenant responsible for mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold spreading from the corner of the bedroom ceiling after the heavy humidity last week. The wall feels slightly damp to the touch. Are landlords in Dubai responsible for fixing this kind of water damage and mold remediation, or is this on me as the tenant to handle?
Posted by Malgorzata Dabrowski
Asked on March 27, 2026 3:52 am
Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the responsibility for structural repairs and issues arising from the building's inherent condition falls upon the landlord. This includes water intrusion from external sources, such as a leaking roof or a faulty external pipe, which is the most likely cause of the mold growth you're describing on your ceiling in Jumeirah. The dampness you feel confirms an active moisture source that must be addressed.

Your responsibility as a tenant is typically limited to minor internal maintenance and reporting the issue in a timely manner. You must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the mold and water damage immediately. This creates a documented record of your request for repair. Do not attempt to simply paint over it, as this will not solve the underlying moisture problem and the mold will return.

Given the visible spread and dampness, this requires professional assessment. The high humidity in Dubai, combined with air conditioning systems that can create condensation if not properly maintained, creates a perfect environment for mold proliferation. A certified mold inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the spore types and concentration levels and, crucially, use moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint the exact source of the water intrusion.

For a comprehensive inspection and a remediation plan that addresses the root cause, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. We can provide a detailed report for your landlord and execute the necessary remediation. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 28, 2026 10:46 am