Who is responsible for addressing the mildew under the sink?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE context, particularly within Dubai, addressing the issue of mold under your sink falls primarily under the landlord's responsibility. According to the UAE Real Estate Agency Law and The Landlord and Tenant Regulations issued by the Dubai Municipality, landlords are expected to ensure that properties are in a habitable condition when tenants move in and should maintain them during the lease period.

However, it's important to note that as the tenant, you have the right to notify your landlord about such issues. While you've already brought this matter to their attention multiple times, persistent reminders might not always be effective. In such cases, taking further steps can be necessary to ensure the problem is addressed properly and promptly.

Firstly, it would be wise to document everything - dates of your communications with the landlord, any attempts to resolve the issue yourself (like cleaning), and a detailed description of the mold condition under the sink. This documentation could serve as evidence in case you need to escalate the matter further.

Should the landlord not address the issue after appropriate reminders, considering consulting a professional environmental inspector for an independent assessment can be beneficial. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice are well-versed with local regulations and can provide expert guidance on mold remediation procedures that comply with UAE standards.

If you decide to go this route, it's crucial to ensure the chosen company adheres to local guidelines and has experience in dealing with indoor environmental quality issues such as mold. Professional assistance could also help you understand if there are any structural or moisture-related issues contributing to the mold growth, which might need more comprehensive solutions beyond just cleaning.

Remember that while landlords have a duty to maintain properties in good condition, tenants do not bear the responsibility for addressing mold issues themselves unless specifically stated otherwise in their lease agreement. If your landlord continues to ignore the issue despite repeated requests and documentation, you may consider seeking legal advice or contacting relevant authorities such as The Dubai Land Department (DLD) or the Consumer Protection Department of the Ministry of Economy.

In conclusion, while you should continue urging your landlord to address this concern, if necessary steps are not taken promptly, it might be wise to seek professional help and possibly escalate the matter.