Who is responsible for mold remediation in my apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, responsibility for mold remediation depends on the source of the moisture. The landlord is generally responsible for fixing structural issues causing the dampness, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or cracks in the building envelope. You, as the tenant, are typically responsible for issues stemming from daily living, like inadequate ventilation leading to condensation.

Given the location behind the vanity pipes, the source could be either. A small, isolated patch might be due to condensation from humidity, but a persistent leak from the pipework or wall is the landlord's obligation to repair. The high humidity in Dubai, especially during summer, can cause condensation in poorly ventilated bathrooms, which is a tenant's responsibility to manage by using exhaust fans and wiping down surfaces.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, to report the issue. They are obligated to investigate the cause. For a definitive answer on the moisture source, a professional inspection is recommended. An inspector can use moisture meters and thermal imaging to determine if the dampness is from a leak or ambient humidity, which clarifies responsibility. The inspection report provides the evidence needed to determine who pays for the necessary repairs and remediation.