Mold in Jumeirah apartment: landlord first or inspection?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been making this weird damp smell for a couple of weeks, and now I’ve just found black, fuzzy spots spreading behind our bedroom wardrobe. It’s worse on the wall that faces the outside. What’s the best way to get a proper mold inspection done here, and should I contact my landlord first or get a professional report myself?
Posted by Mary Williams
Asked on April 20, 2026 10:20 am
Contact a professional inspection service first to get an independent report before notifying your landlord. In Dubai's climate, with high humidity and constant AC use, the damp smell and black spots behind the wardrobe are classic signs of a condensation and mold issue, often worsened on exterior walls.

A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it includes moisture mapping to find the water source and often air or surface sampling to identify the mold type. This documented evidence is crucial for effectively communicating the problem's severity to your landlord, as it separates the cause (like a potential construction leak or insulation fault) from the symptom (the mold growth).

Under Dubai rental laws (RERA), landlords are typically responsible for fixing issues related to the building's structure and maintenance, which includes leaks and resultant mold from faulty insulation or plumbing. Presenting a professional report strengthens your case for necessary repairs.

Once you have the inspection report, then formally notify your landlord or building management. They are obligated to address the underlying moisture problem; simply cleaning the visible mold is an incomplete solution. The inspection report provides the concrete evidence needed to ensure the remediation is done correctly.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 21, 2026 2:57 pm