Is my landlord required to fix mold in my Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

It depends on the source of the moisture causing the mold. Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for fixing structural and external issues that lead to problems like water leaks or seepage. This would include a leaking roof, faulty external plumbing, or inadequate insulation causing condensation within the walls or ceiling.

However, if the humidity is solely due to internal activities (like drying clothes indoors without ventilation) and there is no structural defect, the responsibility could fall on the tenant. The persistent growth in your closet despite a dehumidifier suggests an underlying moisture source, which is likely the landlord's responsibility to investigate and rectify.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, and request they send a technician to identify the moisture source. In many older Al Barsha buildings, this is a common issue caused by poorly insulated ceilings or walls where cold AC air meets warm, humid outdoor air, creating condensation inside the structure itself.

For a patch that is growing, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the mold species and the true moisture source. Remediation is more than just wiping it away; the root cause must be fixed, or it will return. While you wait, ensure the closet is well-ventilated and consider moving valuable clothing to protect it from spores.