Landlord or tenant responsible for mold cost in rental?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility depends on the source of the moisture causing the mold. Under Dubai tenancy law, the landlord is generally responsible for the property's structural integrity and maintenance of central AC systems, plumbing, and roofing. You, as the tenant, are responsible for maintaining cleanliness and ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent condensation.

Given your description of a "huge patch" spreading from the wall, this strongly suggests a hidden leak in the plumbing or a crack in the building envelope, which is the landlord's responsibility to investigate and repair. The persistent high humidity in Dubai, especially when combined with air conditioning that can cause cold surfaces to condensate, accelerates mold growth from any underlying leak.

Immediately notify your landlord in writing with clear photos and a description of the suspected leak. They are obligated to address the root cause. For a patch this large, a professional inspection is crucial to identify the exact moisture source and extent of growth, as some black molds can exacerbate respiratory issues like coughing. The remediation cost for fixing the leak and removing the mold typically falls on the landlord. The cost for repainting or replacing the wardrobe is often a point of negotiation, but the landlord should cover the essential repairs.