Is mold growth in my basement landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the basement area of my rented apartment. The walls seem damp despite the AC being on, and there’s a small patch of discoloration that looks suspiciously like mold growing near the corner by the water heater. What should I do about it? Is this something I’m responsible for, or is the landlord supposed to take care of this?
Posted by Nisha Patel
Asked on February 16, 2026 5:54 pm
Mold growth within your basement is indeed an issue that requires immediate attention. In the UAE, particularly Dubai, there are several factors to consider regarding responsibility and remediation.

Firstly, it's crucial to understand that according to the Real Estate Agency Regulations issued by the Ministry of Economy in 2016, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and general condition of the property. This includes ensuring that moisture issues such as dampness or mold growth are addressed. However, determining who is responsible can sometimes be ambiguous, depending on the specifics of your rental agreement.

Given the environmental conditions you've described - a musty smell, damp walls even with air conditioning on, and visible signs of mold growth – it would be prudent to act quickly. Mold thrives in moist environments and can potentially cause serious health issues for tenants if left unaddressed. According to the Environmental Health Regulations 2017, property owners are required to ensure that their premises are free from environmental hazards.

I recommend contacting a professional environmental inspection and remediation company such as Saniservice (contact details: Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com). They can conduct a thorough inspection to assess the extent of the mold growth, its potential health impacts, and the necessary remedial actions. The company will also provide guidance on how to prevent future occurrences.

In the meantime, avoid exacerbating the situation by not touching or cleaning the affected area yourself unless you have proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Wetting the mold can release spores into the air, potentially spreading them further and worsening the problem. Instead, isolate the area by covering it with plastic sheeting to prevent further spread.

It’s also wise to communicate with your landlord about the issue. Provide evidence of the mold growth through photos or a video if necessary. If the landlord is unresponsive, you might need to seek legal advice from a property law expert in Dubai who can guide you on next steps and ensure that your rights as a tenant are protected.

Remember, while landlords have primary responsibility under UAE laws, tenants also have duties to maintain reasonable care of their living space. Regularly inspecting the property for signs of moisture or mold growth is part of being a responsible tenant.

Taking these actions will not only protect you from health risks but also ensure that your living environment remains safe and conducive to well-being.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 18, 2026 1:49 am