Is landlord responsible for bedroom wall mold remediation?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law, the landlord is typically responsible for structural repairs and issues arising from the building's fabric, which includes persistent damp and mold caused by leaks or inadequate waterproofing. However, if the mold growth is a direct result of tenant behavior—such as a failure to use the AC adequately to manage indoor humidity—the responsibility can become less clear.

The black splotches behind your wardrobe are a classic sign of condensation mold, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and the temperature differential between a cool room and a warm exterior wall. Placing furniture against a wall restricts airflow, creating a cold spot where moisture condenses and mold thrives. This is extremely common here.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or building management in writing about the issue, including photos. They are obligated to investigate and address the root cause, which could be an underlying leak or insufficient external cladding or insulation. Simply painting over it is not remediation.

For health safety and to establish the cause, a professional inspection is wise. They can determine if it's a surface condensation issue or something more serious, like a hidden pipe leak. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. In the interim, move the wardrobe away from the wall, ensure your AC is running consistently to dehumidify the space, and regularly ventilate the room when outdoor humidity is lower.