Landlord or tenant responsible for mold on wall?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai tenancy law, the landlord is typically responsible for structural repairs and issues arising from building defects, while tenants are responsible for maintenance and damage they cause. Mold from pre-existing water intrusion or faulty building envelope is the landlord's responsibility to fix at their expense. If the mold resulted from tenant negligence, like failing to use the AC or report a leak, the tenant may be liable.

Given the location in Marina and the description of it spreading since humid weather, this is likely due to condensation or a hidden leak in the external wall, which is a structural issue. The tenant's duty is to report it immediately in writing to the landlord or property manager. Do not just wipe it; this spreads spores and doesn't address the moisture source. Continuous AC use is critical in our climate to manage indoor humidity and prevent condensation on cool walls.

For a proper resolution, the landlord should arrange a professional inspection to identify the moisture source. This often requires thermal imaging or moisture meters to find the root cause behind the wall. Remediation involves fixing the leak or insulating the wall, then properly removing the contaminated materials. A surface clean is insufficient.

If the landlord refuses to address a structural issue, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Center (RDC). Document everything with dated photos and written communication. For your health and to prevent property damage, insist on a professional assessment.