Is mold remediation the landlord's responsibility in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found behind our bedroom wardrobe in Silicon Oasis. The wall there feels damp and it's been spreading for a while, maybe since the humidity spiked a few months back. I'm not sure if this is something I should fix myself or if it's my landlord's responsibility to handle. What exactly is the tenant liable for versus the building owner when it comes to mold remediation in Dubai?
Posted by Amanda Davis
Asked on March 14, 2026 12:52 am
In Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the cause of the moisture intrusion, as outlined in standard tenancy contract terms and Dubai Land Department guidelines. The landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for addressing structural defects that lead to moisture problems, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, cracks in the building envelope, or inadequate external sealing around windows. Since you've noted a consistently damp wall behind the wardrobe, this strongly suggests a persistent moisture source, which is likely the landlord's responsibility to investigate and rectify.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent condensation—a significant issue in Dubai's humid climate exacerbated by year-round AC use. Tenants are expected to use exhaust fans, avoid drying clothes indoors, and ensure AC units are set to a reasonable temperature to minimize condensation. If the mold growth is deemed to be a result of tenant negligence in this regard, the cost of remediation may fall to you.

Given the health symptoms your children are experiencing and the visible spread of the mold, this is a serious case that requires immediate professional attention. DIY removal is not advised for health reasons and because it fails to address the underlying moisture source. A certified mold inspection is crucial to identify the exact cause, type of mold present, and the full extent of contamination, including within the wall cavity.

We strongly recommend you contact your landlord immediately with your findings and request a professional assessment. For a comprehensive inspection and certified remediation report to present to your landlord, you can call our experts at Saniservice on 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our team is equipped to determine the moisture source definitively and provide the documentation needed to clarify liability.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 15, 2026 2:55 am