What are my rights regarding mold in my rental?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a bit of mold growing behind the bookshelf in my living room, which we can't easily access since it’s tucked away near the air conditioning unit. The landlord hasn’t seemed interested in addressing it, but I’m not sure if it's my responsibility to bring it up or if they should be handling it. What are my obligations as a tenant when it comes to eco-friendly and health-related issues like this?
Posted by Yasmin Nasser
Asked on February 4, 2026 5:39 pm
In the context of your inquiry concerning mold in your rental property in Dubai/UAE, it is crucial to understand both your rights and responsibilities. The UAE, like many other jurisdictions, has specific regulations regarding maintenance standards for rental properties that tenants can rely on.

Firstly, it's essential to be aware of the Emirate of Dubai Municipality guidelines which mandate landlords to maintain their properties in a safe and habitable condition. This includes ensuring there are no structural or health hazards such as mold growth. Should you identify conditions like the mold behind your bookshelf, you have every right to bring this matter to the attention of your landlord.

However, it's also important to consider the practicality of addressing such issues immediately. In some cases, minor instances of mold might be contained and remediated without significant intervention from a professional. Nonetheless, given that mold can pose health risks especially in enclosed spaces like behind furniture near air conditioning units, I strongly recommend scheduling an inspection by professionals who specialize in indoor environmental quality.

In the UAE, companies such as Saniservice (contactable via 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) offer professional mold inspections and remediation services. Engaging these experts can ensure that any issues are properly assessed and addressed, ensuring both your health and the property's integrity are safeguarded.

Moreover, if you find yourself in a situation where your landlord is unresponsive to your concerns, it might be wise to document all interactions regarding this issue. Keeping records of emails, letters, or verbal communications can serve as evidence should any dispute arise. Additionally, many tenants might also consider consulting with local tenant associations for guidance on navigating such issues.

In conclusion, while it's always advisable to maintain open lines of communication with your landlord, if they are not responsive, you may need to take further steps to address the mold issue. Ensuring that the problem is properly assessed and managed by professionals can provide both peace of mind and a safer living environment for you and any other occupants.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 7, 2026 8:20 am