Is landlord responsible for mold from humidity in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and the standard tenancy contract, the responsibility for mold remediation depends on the source of the moisture.

The landlord is unequivocally responsible for addressing structural and maintenance-related issues that lead to mold. This includes problems like leaking pipes within the walls, faulty waterproofing in adjacent bathrooms, cracks in the building envelope, or a defective air conditioning system that fails to properly dehumidify the space. Your description of the AC running constantly without effectively reducing dampness strongly suggests an underlying issue with the HVAC system's performance, which is a landlord maintenance obligation.

However, as a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property through adequate ventilation. In Dubai's high-humidity climate, this means regularly running the AC to control moisture, using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and avoiding activities that generate excessive indoor humidity without proper ventilation.

Given that the mold is concealed behind a closet and spreading, this is a serious case that requires professional assessment. A DIY approach is insufficient and can disturb toxic spores. A certified mold inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact moisture source, and provide a definitive report on liability.

I strongly recommend you contact your landlord immediately with your concerns and request a professional inspection. For a comprehensive assessment that holds up in any tenancy dispute, you can call our specialists at Saniservice on 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our certified team can determine the exact cause and provide the documentation needed to clarify responsibility.