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

Recurring mold indicates a persistent moisture source, and responsibility in a Dubai rental depends on identifying its origin. If the mold is due to the building's structure (like a leaking pipe in the wall, faulty external sealing, or a chronic condensation issue from the AC system itself), it is typically the landlord's responsibility to fix under Dubai rental law, which mandates landlords provide a habitable property.

However, if the moisture is primarily from indoor lifestyle humidity (like drying clothes indoors or inadequate ventilation) exacerbated by the coastal Marina climate, managing it falls to the tenant. Simply wiping mold with bleach is a temporary fix; it doesn't address the moisture and can push spores deeper.

Your case—black mold returning in a closet on an exterior wall—strongly suggests an underlying structural or HVAC issue. Constant AC use should dehumidify, so its failure to control humidity points to a problem. You must formally notify your landlord in writing about the recurring issue and request a professional inspection to find the root cause. They are obligated to investigate. A proper inspection uses moisture meters and thermal cameras to find hidden leaks or condensation points that are not visible.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For your health, consider a professional mold test to identify the species, as some types common in damp wall cavities require specific remediation protocols.