Is landlord responsible for mold behind sofa in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for fixing the underlying cause of the mold, which is almost always a moisture issue like a hidden pipe leak or water seepage through the external wall. You are responsible for reporting it and for any damage caused by tenant negligence, but the structural repair is theirs.

The immediate mold on the surface is a health concern and should be addressed. Wiping it away is a temporary fix; the spores remain and it will return without solving the moisture source. In JVC, humidity and condensation from temperature differences between the AC-cooled interior and the humid exterior are common causes, especially on external walls where furniture blocks airflow.

Document the issue clearly with dated photos and videos, then formally notify your landlord or building management in writing about the recurring mold and request they investigate and repair the moisture source. For a persistent case like this, a professional inspection is wise to identify the exact cause—be it condensation, a leak, or rising damp—as this report becomes crucial evidence for your landlord.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC). They can mandate an inspection and order the landlord to make repairs. In the meantime, move the sofa away from the wall to improve air circulation, which can help reduce condensation buildup.