Who handles mold in a rental, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for addressing mold issues in a rental property is primarily governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. Generally, the property owner (landlord) is responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the building's envelope, including fixing leaks in external walls, roofs, and the AC system's main ducts—all of which are common culprits for the type of musty odor you're describing. Your observation that the smell is strongest near the outside wall after the AC cycles off is a major red flag; it strongly suggests a hidden condensation or infiltration issue.

As the tenant, your responsibility typically covers routine cleaning and ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. However, since this is a persistent, strong odor emanating from a structural area, it is almost certainly beyond a simple cleaning fix. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. They are obligated to investigate and rectify the source of the moisture intrusion, as allowing mold to proliferate can lead to health issues and further damage to the property.

Do not attempt to remediate this yourself. Disturbing mold without proper containment can exacerbate spore dispersal. A professional inspection is crucial to identify the exact moisture source—be it a leaking pipe, AC drain pan overflow, or a breach in the building envelope—and to conduct air quality testing to assess the contamination level.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your landlord takes appropriate action, I recommend engaging a specialist. Our team can provide a comprehensive inspection and detailed report.

Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 to schedule an investigation, or email hello@saniservice.com with your unit details.