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

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black, fuzzy mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet where our winter clothes are stored. It's been incredibly humid the last few months and I think it's been growing slowly. I’m worried about our health and our belongings, but I’m not sure if this is something I need to fix myself or if I should contact the landlord. Who is legally responsible for the cleanup and mold remediation in a rental here?
Posted by Eunji Jung
Asked on April 8, 2026 2:14 pm
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily governed by the rental contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended (the 'Dubai Rental Law'). Generally, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, faulty construction, or inadequate air conditioning systems that lead to condensation and mold growth. As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition, including ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent moisture accumulation.

Given the climate in Dubai, with its extreme humidity and reliance on year-round AC, mold in a closet is a common issue often caused by a combination of factors. The persistent humidity suggests a possible underlying moisture issue that may be beyond simple tenant maintenance, such as a leaking pipe in the wall, insufficient insulation leading to condensation (a phenomenon known as a cold bridge), or a malfunctioning AC unit not properly dehumidifying the air.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the discovery, including photographs. This officially documents the issue. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, especially black mold, as improper disturbance can aerosolize harmful spores and exacerbate the problem. For a proper assessment and to determine the root cause, a professional inspection is critical. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use tools like thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to identify hidden sources of moisture and assess the contamination level. This professional report is crucial evidence to determine liability and the required scope of remediation.

For immediate advice and to schedule a comprehensive inspection to protect your health and property, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 9, 2026 9:01 pm