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

Under Dubai's rental law, the landlord is typically responsible for fixing structural issues that cause mold, especially when it's related to a building defect like a leaking pipe or inadequate insulation. Since you describe the wall as damp and cold, this points to a potential moisture intrusion or condensation problem from the building envelope, which is the landlord's responsibility to repair.

Your first step is to formally notify the landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the black spots and the damp wall. They are obligated to address the source of the moisture. For a documented case like this, they should arrange and pay for the remediation of the mold itself as well.

The cold wall is a key clue; it's likely a thermal bridge where condensation forms due to the high outdoor humidity meeting the cold AC-chilled surface. This is a common issue in villas here. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as disturbing it can release spores and exacerbate your children's coughing.

A professional inspection can identify the exact moisture source and mold type, which is important for health concerns. While many molds are just irritants, the species can only be confirmed through lab analysis. Resolving the underlying dampness is the only permanent solution. Keep records of all communication with the landlord, as you may need to file a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai if they are unresponsive.