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

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it’s from the black mold that’s been spreading on the bedroom wall behind the wardrobe since the humidity kicked in last month. I told the landlord about it two weeks ago but they said it’s because we don’t run the AC enough and that it's our responsibility to fix. Who is actually responsible for removing mold in a rental here in Dubai, the tenant or the landlord?
Posted by Margaret Scott
Asked on March 30, 2026 10:59 pm
Based on UAE Civil Code and Dubai rental regulations, the landlord is generally responsible for addressing structural and maintenance issues that lead to mold, such as water leaks, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation systems. Your situation, where mold is forming due to condensation from high humidity, can be a gray area. However, the landlord's assertion that it's solely due to insufficient AC usage is an oversimplification. Dubai's climate, characterized by extreme humidity for much of the year, makes buildings inherently prone to condensation, especially in poorly insulated areas or behind large furniture like wardrobes where air circulation is restricted.

While tenants are responsible for maintaining the property through reasonable care, such as using exhaust fans and ensuring adequate AC operation to manage humidity, the landlord is obligated to provide a habitable dwelling. Persistent mold growth that affects health, particularly for vulnerable individuals like children, indicates a failure of the property's environment to manage moisture effectively, which is a landlord's responsibility to rectify.

For a definitive resolution, we strongly recommend a professional inspection. Our certified inspectors can identify the precise moisture source—whether it's an underlying leak, rising damp, or purely condensation—and produce a legally defensible report that outlines the cause and required remedial actions. This report is crucial for formally engaging with your landlord or the Dubai Rental Dispute Center. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate spore dispersal and health risks.

For immediate assistance with inspection and remediation, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Saniservice is equipped to provide the technical assessment and certified remediation needed to resolve this issue safely and permanently.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 1, 2026 8:21 am