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

My kids have been coughing at night and I’ve just discovered a patch of black mold in the corner of their bedroom closet, which is on an exterior wall. We’ve been in this Al Barsha villa for about a year, but this only became noticeable after the heavy dew and humidity last week. I’m worried about their health, but I’m not sure if this is something I should fix myself or if it’s my landlord's responsibility to handle and pay for. Who is legally responsible for addressing a mold issue like this in a rental?
Posted by Adel Al-Nahyan
Asked on March 22, 2026 12:08 am
Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the responsibility for addressing mold is determined by the cause of the issue. As a tenant, you are responsible for reporting any maintenance issues in a timely manner and for maintaining the property through adequate ventilation and cleanliness. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structural integrity and ensure it is habitable, which includes addressing defects in the building envelope that lead to moisture intrusion.

Your situation in Al Barsha is a common scenario in Dubai's climate. The heavy dew and high humidity, combined with an exterior wall, strongly suggest a condensation issue exacerbated by the temperature differential from year-round AC use. However, it could also point to a hidden leak or insufficient insulation within the wall cavity, which is a structural defect. The persistent coughing you describe in your children is a significant health indicator that this is a serious case. Mold, especially of the black variety (Stachybotrys chartarum or others), can produce allergens and irritants that trigger respiratory symptoms, particularly in children.

We strongly advise against self-remediation. Disturbing the mold can aerosolize spores, dramatically increasing airborne contamination and potential exposure. This requires professional inspection and testing to identify the exact species and the root moisture source.

Your immediate action should be to formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue, including photos. Request a professional mold inspection. If the cause is determined to be structural, the landlord is responsible for the remediation costs. For a comprehensive assessment to protect your family's health and determine liability, we recommend you contact our specialists. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a detailed investigation and remediation plan.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 24, 2026 5:14 pm