Who is responsible for mold from water damage, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The wall behind my wardrobe in the bedroom has a huge dark patch of mold that's been getting worse since the heavy rains in Al Quoz a couple of months ago. I’ve been wiping it down with vinegar, but the musty smell is unbearable and I'm worried about our health. My landlord is saying it's from us not ventilating the room properly, but we run the AC constantly. Who is legally responsible for fixing this kind of water damage and the mold removal, me as the tenant or the building owner?
Posted by Wolfgang Wisniewski
Asked on April 3, 2026 5:31 am
Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for this type of structural water damage and subsequent mold growth typically falls on the landlord. The law mandates that the property owner is responsible for maintaining the property's structure and ensuring it is habitable, which includes addressing leaks from the building's exterior, roof, or plumbing systems.

Your situation in Al Quoz, where the issue began after heavy rains, strongly indicates an external water intrusion through the building envelope. This is a structural defect, not a result of tenant activities. While landlords often incorrectly blame condensation from AC use or lack of ventilation, a properly functioning AC unit in the UAE's climate actually dehumidifies the air and helps prevent mold, not cause it. Wiping with vinegar is a temporary surface fix that does not address the moisture source or the mold roots within the wall, hence the persistent smell and regrowth.

For a definitive resolution, you need a Professional Mold Inspection. A certified inspector will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to identify the exact water entry point and take air/surface samples to document the species and concentration of mold. This technical report is crucial evidence to formally present to your landlord, proving the issue is structural. If they remain uncooperative, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai.

Given the extent of the damage and the health risks from the mycotoxins in that musty air, i strongly recommend you stop DIY cleaning and get a professional assessment.

Call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive inspection and a detailed report for your landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 9:22 pm