Who is responsible for mold in my bedroom?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the ceiling of my bedroom. When I carefully peeled back some of the wall paneling, I found black spots that seemed to be growing, especially in the corners where moisture tends to accumulate. It's been just under a week since I discovered this, and it’s really concerning me. Who should take responsibility for addressing this issue—me or my landlord?
Posted by Jin Zhou
Asked on January 23, 2026 9:12 am
In the UAE and specifically in Dubai, mold issues such as those described can indeed be quite common due to climate conditions. The musty smell you're experiencing alongside black spots suggests potential hidden mold growth which should not be taken lightly.

According to the Building Code of the UAE and various local real estate laws, landlords are typically responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of a property including managing water ingress issues that might lead to mold growth. However, tenant responsibilities also come into play in terms of ensuring that any discovered mold is promptly reported to the landlord or management company.

Given your situation, it would be wise to immediately inform your landlord about the potential mold issue. Document everything - take detailed photos and note down the date when you noticed the condition. This documentation will serve as evidence should further action become necessary.

It's highly recommended that a professional inspection is carried out. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice can offer specialized mold testing services to confirm if the spots are indeed mold growth and to assess its severity. You might want to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for an appointment.

Remember, hidden mold poses health risks which could affect not only you but also other tenants in your building. Early detection and remediation are crucial steps towards ensuring the safety of all occupants. In the meantime, avoid touching or disturbing the area as this can spread spores leading to further contamination.

If the landlord does not respond adequately within a reasonable timeframe, consider consulting with a legal advisor who specializes in property law in Dubai to explore your options under tenant rights legislation.

Always prioritize your health and safety by taking prompt action.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 24, 2026 1:38 pm