is my landlord required to fix damp moldy walls??« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended), your landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues like water leaks, rising damp, or faulty external waterproofing that lead to mold growth. If the dampness originates from a structural defect or a leak in the building's plumbing, they are legally obligated to fix it.

However, if the moisture is due to tenant-related factors like inadequate ventilation, excessive indoor humidity from daily activities, or blocking AC units, the responsibility may fall on you. The constant AC use required in Dubai's climate can create significant condensation if units are not properly maintained or if airflow is restricted by furniture.

Given the visible patches, damp wall, and your children's persistent cough, this is a serious case requiring professional assessment. Document everything with photos and dates. Formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue and its potential health impact. For immediate testing, a certified indoor environmental professional can conduct moisture mapping and take surface samples for lab analysis to identify the mold species and moisture source. This documented evidence is crucial for determining liability and the required scope of remediation, which must address the root cause to prevent recurrence.