Who is responsible for mold in a Dubai rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page
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We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold growing in the corner of our master bedroom closet, which is on the exterior wall. It seems to have gotten worse since the heavy humidity last month. Our landlord is saying it's our fault for not ventilating properly, but we run the AC constantly. Who is legally responsible for the inspection and remediation costs in this situation?
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In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily governed by the rental contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai Law'.
Typically, the landlord is responsible for addressing the underlying cause of the mold if it stems from a structural defect or a failure of the building's infrastructure. This includes issues like water seepage through the exterior wall, leaking pipes within the walls, or a faulty air conditioning system that is not properly dehumidifying the space. Given your description of the mold on an exterior wall that worsened after a period of high humidity, a professional inspection is critical to determine the root cause. The high humidity and condensation inherent to Dubai's climate, even with AC running, often exacerbate pre-existing structural moisture issues. The tenant's responsibility generally relates to damage caused by negligence, such as failing to use the AC, improper ventilation, or creating excessive moisture (e.g., drying clothes indoors without ventilation). Since you state the AC is run constantly, this points toward a potential building envelope or AC unit deficiency. My professional recommendation is to immediately engage a certified mold inspection company like Saniservice. Our experts will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and thermal imaging, to identify the precise source of the moisture intrusion. This detailed technical report is essential evidence to determine legal liability. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and exacerbate health risks. For a definitive diagnosis and to protect your interests, call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. |
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