Is the landlord responsible for bedroom mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the description of black speckles and a persistent damp smell behind a wardrobe in an older Bur Dubai building, this is a classic case of concealed mold growth, highly exacerbated by the current humidity and likely driven by a hidden moisture source.

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the source of the moisture. According to standard rental contract terms (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity. If the mold is a result of a structural issue, such as a leaking pipe within the walls, a crack in the building envelope, or faulty external waterproofing that allows water ingress, the financial and remedial responsibility falls on the landlord.

However, as tenants, you are responsible for maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent condensation, which is a massive contributor to mold in Dubai's climate. The constant use of AC can create significant temperature differentials, leading to condensation on cold walls, especially behind large furniture like wardrobes that restrict airflow. If the mold is solely due to this condensation and lack of ventilation, the responsibility for cleanup may shift to you.

Given that the mold is concealed and the cause is not immediately obvious, a professional inspection is absolutely critical. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to accurately pinpoint the exact source of the moisture without destructive investigation. This evidence is essential for determining liability between tenant and landlord.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize toxic spores. For a definitive assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly, please contact our team. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. We can also provide a detailed report for your landlord if the issue is determined to be structural.