Who is responsible for mold on my rental apartment wall?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically determined by the cause of the moisture.

The landlord is responsible for addressing structural issues that lead to mold growth. This includes problems like leaking pipes within the walls, faulty waterproofing on the exterior, a compromised building envelope, or a defective air conditioning system that is producing excessive condensation due to poor drainage or improper installation. These are considered maintenance issues pertaining to the property itself.

However, the tenant is responsible for mold caused by their own negligence or lifestyle habits. In Dubai's humid climate, this primarily relates to inadequate ventilation. If moisture is generated from indoor activities (cooking, showering) and not properly exhausted, or if furniture is placed directly against walls, preventing air circulation from the AC unit, the resulting condensation and mold can be deemed the tenant's responsibility. The fact that the mold is behind your sofa is a significant detail, as this is a classic scenario for condensation buildup.

Given that this is a new issue in your third year of tenancy, a professional inspection is crucial to determine the root cause. We strongly recommend you contact a certified mold inspector from Saniservice. Our experts use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the precise source of the water intrusion—whether it’s a hidden leak or condensation—which will definitively establish liability.

Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper handling can spread spores. For a proper assessment and a resolution path, call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.