Who is responsible for fixing mold in a rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is determined by the cause of the moisture, as outlined in Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, which regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants. If the mold growth, as you've described behind the wardrobe, is a result of a structural or building envelope issue—such as a leaking pipe within the wall, a crack in the building facade allowing water ingress, or faulty external waterproofing—then the financial responsibility for the inspection, remediation, and repairs falls squarely on the landlord or the building management. The tenant is typically responsible for costs only if the damage is proven to be a direct result of their negligence, such as failing to use the AC, causing excessive condensation, or not reporting a spill in a timely manner.

Given your location in Jumeirah Village and the described damp wall, this is a serious case that requires immediate professional attention. The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create a perfect environment for mold when a hidden moisture source is present. A simple cleaning is insufficient; the root cause must be identified and fixed.

I strongly recommend you formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. You should also engage a professional mold inspection company like Saniservice. Our certified experts use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the water intrusion, which is critical for determining liability. We then provide a detailed report that can be used to clarify responsibility with the landlord and a scope of work for safe, complete remediation. Do not attempt to handle significant mold growth yourself, as improper disturbance can spread spores and exacerbate the problem. For an immediate assessment, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.