Is landlord responsible for mold cleanup in rental villa?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes fixing the source of a water leak from an AC unit or plumbing. You, as the tenant, are responsible for reporting the issue in a timely manner.

Since you've discovered a leak and subsequent mold growth, notify your landlord or property management company immediately in writing. Provide clear photos and request they send a professional to repair the leak at its source. The cleanup of the extensive mold growth should also be addressed by them, as it is a direct result of the structural maintenance issue. For a patch this large, especially with health symptoms present, a professional mold inspection is critical to assess the full extent and properly remediate it. DIY cleaning is not advised for large infestations.

Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use can cause condensation leaks inside walls that go unnoticed for months, allowing significant mold colonies to develop. The landlord's contractor must fix the leak and ensure the wall cavity is properly dried before any repairs are made. Until the moisture source is eliminated, the mold will return.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC). Document all communications and the condition thoroughly. Given the health impact on your children, this is a legitimate issue concerning the property's habitability.