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

Excellent question. This is a very common issue we see, especially in August when the ambient humidity peaks. The short answer is that responsibility typically falls on the landlord for the underlying cause, but tenant negligence can complicate matters.

Under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai), the landlord is obligated to provide a property that is habitable and in good condition, which includes maintaining the structural integrity and essential systems like the AC and ventilation. Persistent high humidity leading to mold growth is often a direct result of inadequate ventilation or a faulty AC system that isn't properly dehumidifying the air. This is a building defect, making it the landlord's responsibility to investigate and remedy the root cause.

However, the tenant also has a duty of care. If the landlord can prove you have not been using the AC appropriately (e.g., turning it off completely for days while away, preventing air circulation) or have created excessive moisture (like drying clothes indoors without ventilation), they may argue you are liable.

Your actions with the dehumidifier show due diligence, which strengthens your case. The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing with photos of the mold. They should send a technician to inspect the AC unit's drainage, capacity, and the property's ventilation.

For a definitive assessment of the moisture source and to ensure the mold is remediated safely (that black mold could be Stachybotrys, which requires professional handling), I strongly recommend an independent indoor environmental quality inspection. We can provide a detailed report pinpointing the cause, which is often crucial for resolving disputes with landlords.

Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a professional assessment. Don't just clean the visible mold; the spores will keep coming back until the moisture issue is solved.