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

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found behind our bedroom wardrobe in our Marina apartment. It’s been incredibly humid the last few weeks and the wall there feels damp. My landlord says it's our fault for not ventilating properly, but I think the building's insulation might be the issue. Who is legally responsible for the mold remediation and repair costs here, the tenant or the landlord?
Posted by Thomas Taylor
Asked on March 31, 2026 6:28 am
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily determined by the cause of the moisture, as outlined in Law No. (26) of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law.

The landlord is typically responsible for addressing mold issues stemming from structural defects or inherent building problems. This includes inadequate waterproofing, leaking pipes within the walls, faulty construction leading to water ingress, or poor external insulation—a common contributor in Dubai's high-humidity climate where condensation can form on cold bridges within the building envelope. If the mold behind your wardrobe is a result of a leaking AC condensation line, a burst pipe in the wall, or a structural defect allowing moisture from the humid Marina air to penetrate, the financial and remedial obligation falls on the landlord.

However, tenant liability arises if the mold proliferation is a direct result of negligence. This includes failing to use the provided air conditioning system adequately to control humidity, improper ventilation (e.g., not using exhaust fans), causing specific moisture events like spills that are not dried, or blocking ventilation pathways with furniture, which can create microclimates of stagnant, humid air perfect for mold growth.

Given your description of a damp wall and the current humid conditions, this strongly suggests a building-related moisture issue rather than tenant negligence. We highly recommend you immediately engage a professional mold inspection company like Saniservice. Our certified experts can conduct a thorough assessment to identify the precise moisture source and type of mold, which is critical for determining legal responsibility and formulating the correct remediation protocol. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate health issues like the coughing your children are experiencing. For a definitive diagnosis and a legally valid report, call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 1, 2026 6:48 am