Landlord or tenant responsible for mold in humid Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically dictated by the cause of the mold growth, as outlined in the rental contract and broader tenancy laws. The extreme humidity and constant air conditioning use in Dubai create a high-risk environment for mold, especially in poorly ventilated areas like behind furniture.

The landlord is generally responsible for addressing structural or maintenance issues that lead to mold. This includes problems with the building's external waterproofing, faulty AC systems that cause excessive condensation, or inherent design flaws that trap moisture. If the mold is a result of such a defect, the landlord must bear the cost of both the repair to the root cause and the subsequent mold remediation.

However, tenant responsibilities center on daily maintenance and proper ventilation. If the mold is determined to be a result of the tenant's actions—such as failing to use the AC to control humidity, not ventilating bathrooms, or allowing condensation to accumulate (e.g., by placing furniture directly against external walls)—then the cost of cleanup may fall to the tenant. The appearance behind a wardrobe is a classic sign of condensation due to lack of air circulation, which is often a tenant responsibility to mitigate.

Given the potential health risks of toxic mold species like Stachybotrys (black mold), a professional inspection is critical. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold type, pinpoint the exact moisture source, and provide a definitive report on liability. This evidence is essential for discussions with your landlord or property management. Do not attempt to clean significant growth yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize toxins.

For an immediate assessment and to determine responsibility, call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.