Is mold cleanup the tenant or landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for mold remediation depends on the source of the moisture. The landlord is responsible for fixing the underlying cause if it is a structural or maintenance issue, such as a leak from a pipe in the ceiling, a faulty seal around a window, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation within the walls. The tenant is typically responsible for damage caused by their own negligence or lack of ventilation, such as consistently failing to use the AC or exhaust fans, leading to excessive indoor humidity.

Given your location in JVC and the timing correlating with high humidity, the cause is likely condensation from temperature differentials or a slow leak. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos, and request an immediate inspection to identify the moisture source. Do not attempt to simply paint over or wipe the mold, as this is a temporary fix and the underlying moisture will cause it to return.

For a definitive answer on liability, a professional inspection is needed to pinpoint the moisture source. If the landlord disputes responsibility, this independent assessment provides the evidence required. In serious cases where the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. In the meantime, ensure your AC is running consistently to reduce indoor humidity levels and keep the closet doors open to improve air circulation, which can help slow the spread.