Is landlord responsible for mold remediation in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable dwelling that is free from defects affecting its intended use. This includes addressing structural or maintenance issues that lead to dampness and mold growth, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate external sealing. The persistent humidity in Dubai, combined with year-round AC use which can cause significant condensation if systems are not properly maintained or sized, often exacerbates these underlying issues.

However, tenant responsibilities are outlined in Article 20 of Law No. 26 of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai. You are required to maintain the property in a clean condition and use it in a manner that does not cause damage. This includes adequate ventilation to manage indoor humidity. A landlord may argue liability rests with you if they can prove the mold is solely a result of your failure to ventilate (e.g., never opening windows, drying laundry extensively indoors without ventilation).

Given that the mold was found hidden behind furniture, this strongly suggests a persistent moisture issue that is likely beyond simple surface condensation from lifestyle factors. We highly recommend a professional mold inspection to determine the exact source of the moisture. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to differentiate between condensation and an underlying leak, which is critical evidence for establishing responsibility. The remediation process itself must be conducted by professionals like Saniservice to ensure it is removed safely and to prevent recurrence, as improper cleaning can aerosolize spores and exacerbate health issues like the coughing your children are experiencing.

For an immediate professional assessment to document the cause and protect your family's health, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.