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

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village apartment for 2 years and just noticed a bunch of black spots spreading on the wall behind our wardrobe. It’s been super humid lately and the room always feels damp. Are we responsible for cleaning this and repainting, or is this something the landlord needs to fix?
Posted by Carmen Ramirez
Asked on March 24, 2026 1:17 pm
The responsibility for mold remediation in a Dubai apartment is typically determined by the cause of the moisture, as outlined in Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and the tenancy contract. In your case at Jumeirah Village, the persistent humidity and damp feeling strongly suggest an underlying moisture issue. Landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing leaks in the building envelope, faulty plumbing, or inadequate waterproofing that leads to damp walls. If the mold is a result of such a structural defect, the landlord is obligated to address the root cause and the resulting damage.

However, tenant responsibilities often include maintaining adequate ventilation to combat Dubai's high humidity levels, which are exacerbated by year-round AC use leading to condensation. If the mold growth is solely due to a lack of ventilation (e.g., not using exhaust fans, keeping furniture flush against walls inhibiting airflow), the cost of cleaning and repainting may fall to you.

Given the description of the mold spreading behind a wardrobe—a classic spot for condensation and hidden leaks—a professional inspection is critical to determine the exact cause. We strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can disperse harmful spores. Our certified inspectors can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to identify the source definitively and provide a detailed report for your landlord. This evidence-based approach is essential for resolving responsibility disputes.

For an immediate professional assessment, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 26, 2026 4:57 am