Who is responsible for fixing flood-damaged carpet and mold?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE Civil Code and the standard Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for major structural repairs and issues that affect the habitability of the property, including those caused by natural disasters like flooding, typically falls on the landlord. This includes the remediation of mold and the replacement of structurally integrated elements like carpet and underlay.

A foot of standing water constitutes a major event. The fact that the carpet underlay is still soaked and mold is now present three weeks later is a serious health and safety concern. The landlord's attempt to fix it by only removing a bit of skirting is grossly insufficient and unprofessional. Damp carpet and underlay create a perfect environment for mold growth, which can lead to severe respiratory issues and allergic reactions.

You need a professional inspection immediately to assess the full extent of the water damage behind walls and under the floor. The entire wet material, including carpet and underlay, must be removed, the concrete slab thoroughly dried using industrial equipment, and the area treated with antimicrobial solutions to prevent regrowth. This is not a simple handyman job.

I strongly advise you to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) of the worsening condition and demand a proper remediation by a certified environmental company. If they remain unresponsive, you may need to escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center. For a proper assessment and to document the issue for your landlord, you should get a professional inspection.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com to get a certified team on-site. They can provide a detailed report on the moisture levels and mold contamination, which will be crucial evidence for your landlord or any potential dispute.