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

Based on UAE Civil Code and Dubai rental laws (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is fundamentally responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. This includes addressing issues like dampness and mould that stem from building defects, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate external sealing that allows moisture ingress.

The critical factor is the source of the moisture. If the dampness is due to a structural issue or a building envelope failure, the remediation cost falls squarely on the landlord. However, if the moisture is a result of tenant behaviour (e.g., excessive humidity generation without adequate ventilation, blocking AC vents, or failing to report a minor leak that escalated), the financial responsibility could shift.

Your situation in Jumeirah, with a hidden mould patch behind furniture, strongly suggests an underlying building issue. The health symptoms you describe—persistent cough and headaches that resolve when away from the apartment—are classic indicators of poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) often linked to microbial amplification.

You must formally notify your landlord/property manager in writing about the issue immediately, as delays can exacerbate the problem and potential health risks. We strongly recommend a professional inspection to identify the exact moisture source and assess the contamination extent. DIY cleaning is ineffective for anything beyond surface level and can aerosolize spores, worsening exposure.

For a definitive assessment and compliant remediation protocol, call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can provide the detailed report you may need to present to your landlord.