Is landlord responsible for mold in my Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The presence of black mold behind a wardrobe in a Bur Dubai apartment is a serious health and structural concern, particularly given the high humidity and condensation issues common in older buildings here. The UAE's Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, governs landlord-tenant responsibilities. Under this law, the landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity of the property and for addressing issues that are not a direct result of the tenant's negligence. This includes remediating mold caused by inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes in the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation systems—all common culprits in our humid climate where year-round AC use can create significant condensation if not properly managed.

However, the responsibility can shift to the tenant if the mold is proven to be a result of your specific lifestyle, such as failing to use the AC to control humidity, not ventilating the property adequately, or causing specific water damage. Given that the mold is hidden behind furniture and you've noted a persistent damp feeling, this strongly suggests an underlying structural or ventilation issue, which typically falls under the landlord's obligation to rectify.

For a definitive resolution, a professional inspection is absolutely critical. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the precise source of the moisture—whether it's a hidden leak, rising damp, or condensation—and provide a legally admissible report. This report is essential for formally notifying your landlord of their responsibility and outlining the required remediation scope.

Do not attempt to remove significant black mold yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores and exacerbate your toddler's allergy risks. For immediate assessment and to protect your family's health, I strongly recommend you contact our team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection and get a clear path to resolution.