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

In the UAE, responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically governed by the lease agreement and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Law Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai. The core principle is that the landlord is responsible for the property's structural integrity and maintenance of the main building components, while the tenant is responsible for day-to-day upkeep.

The sudden appearance of a musty smell and mold in a closet, particularly on an exterior wall, strongly suggests an underlying moisture issue. The cause is the critical factor in determining responsibility. If the mold is a result of a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, a crack in the building envelope, or faulty external waterproofing that allows humidity ingress, then the financial responsibility for the investigation and remediation falls to the building management or landlord.

However, if the moisture source is determined to be tenant-related, such as inadequate ventilation, condensation from air conditioning units, or storing damp items in the closet, the tenant may be liable for the cost of cleaning. Dubai's humid climate and year-round reliance on AC create perfect conditions for condensation, which can be mitigated by ensuring proper airflow and maintaining AC drain lines.

Given the confirmed presence of mold and your husband's allergic reactions, this is a serious health concern. We strongly recommend a professional inspection to identify the precise moisture source and extent of contamination. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging and moisture meters for a non-invasive diagnosis. This detailed report will be essential evidence to present to your landlord or building management to clearly establish liability.

Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper remediation can aerosolize spores and exacerbate health issues. For an immediate assessment and to protect your family's health, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.