Landlord or tenant responsible for apartment mold remediation?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The general principle is that the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property's core systems, which includes addressing the root cause of the dampness. This would encompass fixing leaks from plumbing, faulty AC drainage, or structural seepage that leads to the moisture problem.

However, tenant responsibilities, as outlined in Article 25 of the law, include maintaining the property in a hygienic condition and using it in a manner that does not cause damage. If the dampness and subsequent mold growth were a direct result of tenant negligence, such as failing to use the AC to control humidity, improper ventilation leading to condensation (a common issue in Dubai's climate), or causing a water spill that was not reported and dried, the liability could shift to the tenant.

Given the situation described—dampness behind a fixed wardrobe and exacerbated asthma—this strongly indicates a structural or systemic moisture issue, not tenant negligence. The landlord's obligation to provide a habitable dwelling is being compromised. Your husband's worsening respiratory health is a serious concern; mold exposure, particularly from strains like Stachybotrys (black mold), is a known asthma trigger.

We strongly recommend you cease DIY attempts and seek a professional indoor environmental inspection immediately. A certified mold inspector can identify the exact species and the precise moisture source, providing a legally defensible report. This documentation is crucial for formally demanding remediation from your landlord. For immediate assistance with inspection and expert remediation to safeguard your health, we advise you to contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment and to understand your legal standing.