Is landlord responsible for bedroom mold in Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for two years and just noticed a patch of black mold spreading from the corner of our bedroom closet. It's on the wall behind the wardrobe and seems to be worse after we run the AC. With the humidity lately, I'm really worried about it getting bigger. Is this something I need to fix myself, or is the landlord responsible for investigating and fixing a mold issue like this?
Posted by Sara El-Masri
Asked on March 29, 2026 2:39 am
In Dubai's climate, with its high humidity and reliance on year-round air conditioning, mold growth in apartments is a common but serious issue. The responsibility for addressing mold in a rental property is typically dictated by the tenancy contract and Dubai's rental laws.

The landlord is generally responsible for addressing the root cause of the mold if it stems from a structural or maintenance defect. This includes issues like water leaks from faulty plumbing within the walls, inadequate building insulation leading to condensation, or a malfunctioning AC system that is not properly dehumidifying the air. Given that the mold is spreading from a corner and is exacerbated by AC operation, the cause is likely a pre-existing dampness issue, such as a leak or poor insulation, which falls under the landlord's purview.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photographs, and request an immediate inspection. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper remediation can spread spores and exacerbate health risks. The patch's location behind furniture suggests a persistent moisture problem that requires professional diagnosis.

For a definitive assessment and to establish liability, a certified mold inspection is crucial. Our team at Saniservice uses thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the hidden source of the moisture—whether it's a leak, condensation, or an AC drain pan issue—and provides a detailed report that can be used to formally request remediation from your landlord. For expert inspection and remediation that adheres to Dubai Municipality standards, please contact our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 1:21 am