Is landlord responsible for mold removal in Discovery Gardens?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing a lot, and I just pulled back the wardrobe in our master bedroom to find a huge patch of black mold on the wall behind it. We’ve been in this Discovery Gardens apartment for three years and never had an issue before the recent humidity. Is the landlord responsible for the mold removal and fixing the wall, or is this on me to handle as the tenant?
Posted by Ying Zhao
Asked on April 9, 2026 3:40 pm
This depends on the source of the moisture causing the mold. Under Dubai's tenancy laws, the landlord is responsible for fixing structural or building envelope issues, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, faulty external waterproofing, or a leaking AC condensation line. These are considered maintenance issues for the property owner.

However, tenant responsibilities typically include issues stemming from daily living, such as inadequate ventilation leading to condensation. In Discovery Gardens, the recent high humidity combined with year-round AC use creates significant condensation risk. Placing a large wardrobe against an external wall can trap this cool, moist air, providing the perfect environment for mold growth.

Your first step is to inform the landlord in writing with clear photos. They should send a maintenance team to investigate for a leak. If no leak is found, the cause is likely condensation from humidity, which is often a shared responsibility. For a significant patch, a professional inspection is wise to identify the exact mold species and moisture source, as some types require specific remediation protocols. The landlord is generally obligated to repair the wall itself, but the cost of cleaning belongings and mold removal may fall to you if the cause is attributed to ventilation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 10, 2026 9:23 am