Is landlord responsible for mold due to leak?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is typically responsible for mold remediation if the root cause is a structural issue, like a roof leak from the heavy rains. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords must maintain the property's structure and ensure it is habitable. You must notify them in writing about the leak and resulting mold immediately, as this qualifies as a necessary repair for which they are liable.

Given your wife's asthma, this is a health priority. Mold growth, especially after a water event, can release spores that aggravate respiratory conditions. The persistent humidity in Dubai, combined with air conditioning that can create condensation, allows such patches to grow if a moisture source is present.

Do not attempt to remove it yourself. Cleaning the visible patch often misses the hidden moisture and root cause, and disturbing it can aerosolize spores, potentially worsening the air quality and your wife's symptoms. The remediation process requires isolating the area, identifying the full extent of the moisture damage behind the wall or ceiling, and properly disposing of contaminated materials.

A professional inspection is strongly advised to document the cause and full scope. An independent assessment can provide a clear report for your landlord, confirming the mold type and that the leak is the source. This documented evidence is crucial for your request. If the landlord refuses to address a verified leak causing a health hazard, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Center in Dubai.