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

Under UAE tenancy law, the landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity of the property, which includes fixing the source of dampness causing your mold problem. Since the issue is a cold wall with persistent dampness and recurring mold, it points to a building envelope or insulation defect, not a maintenance issue caused by you.

Your first step is to formally notify the landlord in writing, detailing the issue and its potential health impact on your children. Include photos of the black speckles and any communication you've had about the dampness. In Sharjah's climate, where high humidity meets poorly insulated building exteriors, condensation inside walls is a common, persistent issue that requires a structural fix, not just surface cleaning.

Treating the visible mold yourself is a temporary measure, as it will return until the moisture source is eliminated. For a case involving health symptoms and a recurring issue, a professional inspection is advised to document the moisture source and mold type. This provides concrete evidence for your landlord and can identify the specific health risk, as some species are more problematic than others.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Sharjah Municipal Corporation. They can send an inspector to assess the property and issue a notice to the landlord for required repairs. Keep records of all communications for your protection.