Is mold issue my responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the bottom of my bedroom closet. It’s only gotten worse every time it rains, and now there seems to be some discoloration on the walls too. Am I responsible for fixing this mold issue or is this something that should be handled by the landlord?
Posted by Minho Zhao
Asked on January 17, 2026 11:22 pm
In the UAE, particularly within the bustling city of Dubai, mold issues can indeed pose significant challenges. Your scenario is quite common post heavy rainfall events like those you've experienced. The musty smell and discoloration on your bedroom closet walls indicate potential mold growth.

Firstly, it's essential to recognize that while the landlord may be responsible for maintaining the building’s structural integrity, they are not always liable for all maintenance issues within a tenant's unit. In Dubai, according to the Real Estate Agency Regulations 2018, landlords are required to maintain common areas and ensure that their properties are in a fit state to live in. However, when it comes to individual units, tenants often bear some responsibility for regular maintenance.

Given your situation, it would be prudent to address this issue promptly. Mold remediation is not only about addressing the immediate health concerns but also preventing further structural damage to your home. In Dubai, mold can seep into walls and compromise the integrity of your property over time.

I recommend engaging a professional environmental inspection service such as Saniservice, which you can reach via 800-MOLDS or by emailing hello@saniservice.com. These experts will provide a detailed assessment and outline the necessary steps to address the mold issue.

In the meantime, take some preliminary actions:
1. Ensure proper ventilation in your bedroom by opening windows when weather permits.
2. Use dehumidifiers if possible, as this can help reduce moisture levels.
3. Keep affected areas dry; use fans or air conditioners to keep the area cool and reduce humidity.

Remember, mold remediation is a process that requires careful handling to avoid further spread. Professional intervention is recommended due to the complexity of removing mold safely without causing additional damage.

In Dubai, it's also advisable to document your findings and communicate with your landlord regarding the issue. Provide them with professional reports if possible to support your case for necessary repairs.

Ultimately, while you may be responsible for some maintenance tasks in your unit, significant issues like severe mold growth might necessitate intervention from both parties—landlord and tenant—to ensure compliance with local regulations and maintain a healthy living environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 19, 2026 2:02 am