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

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet, which is on the ground floor. The walls seem damp, and there’s some discoloration on the ceiling too. I’m not sure if this is something I should address with my landlord or if they’re responsible for mold remediation since it’s a rental property. Could someone advise me on who is typically responsible for such issues in Dubai?
Posted by Marie Robert
Asked on February 20, 2026 9:42 am
in the uae / dubai, mold issues in rental properties can sometimes be tricky to navigate. typically, the responsibility for mold remediation depends on whether the issue is a result of the tenant's actions or if it's due to a pre-existing condition that was not disclosed by the landlord. according to the real estate agency regulations in the uae, landlords are generally responsible for ensuring the property remains in good repair and free from significant defects.

however, it's important to note that if the mold growth is caused by tenant negligence or misuse of the property (for instance, leaving damp clothes unattended), then this could shift some of the responsibility onto the tenant. given your situation where you've noticed a musty smell and discoloration on the ceiling, it would be wise to schedule an inspection from a professional.

a professional mold inspection can confirm whether the mold is present and determine its source. if it's due to water damage from recent heavy rains or other issues that are not related to tenant neglect, then your landlord might need to take action under the terms of your rental agreement. in dubai, there’s no specific law mandating landlords to inspect for mold regularly; however, they are expected to maintain the property to a certain standard.

if you're unsure about who is responsible or if the landlord isn't acting promptly, consider consulting with a legal expert familiar with uae tenant rights and responsibilities. they can help you understand your options and may advise you on whether it’s appropriate to escalate the matter to the relevant authorities or through mediation services provided by real estate agencies.

in any case, for peace of mind and effective remediation, contacting a certified environmental inspection and remediation company like saniservice could be beneficial. they offer professional mold testing, identification, and remediation services that adhere to local standards and guidelines. their contact information is 800-molds or email hello@saniservice.com.

keeping the air quality in your home clean and healthy is crucial, especially given the recent weather conditions. so don't hesitate to reach out for professional assistance if you suspect mold issues are arising from this season's rains.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 22, 2026 5:21 pm