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

My kids have been coughing a lot lately and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found growing behind our bedroom wardrobe in Jumeirah Lakes Towers. The AC is constantly running, but the room always feels damp. We've been in this apartment for just over a year. Who is legally responsible for the mold remediation here, me as the tenant or my landlord?
Posted by Pierre Esposito
Asked on March 27, 2026 7:49 am
Based on the conditions you've described in your Jumeirah Lakes Towers apartment, this is a serious situation that requires immediate professional assessment. The persistent dampness and visible black mold growth, coupled with your children's respiratory symptoms, indicate a significant indoor air quality issue.

Under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, which regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues that lead to mold, such as inherent building defects, leaking pipes, or faulty waterproofing that causes moisture ingress. The constant AC operation you mention is a critical clue. In Dubai's humid climate, AC systems must be correctly sized and maintained to properly manage humidity levels. If the unit is not effectively dehumidifying the air, it can create the exact damp conditions that promote mold growth behind furniture and on cold surfaces. This could be a maintenance issue or a design flaw.

However, tenant responsibilities under the same law include proper ventilation and reporting issues promptly. Since you've just discovered it, your immediate duty is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the problem and your health concerns. They are then obligated to investigate and rectify the source of the moisture.

Given the potential health risks from black mold and the technical complexity of identifying the exact moisture source (whether it's a construction defect, AC malfunction, or lifestyle factor), we strongly recommend a professional mold inspection. Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to determine the exact cause and extent of the contamination. This evidence-based report is crucial for definitively establishing responsibility and guiding the proper remediation process.

For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 2:48 am