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

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the corner of my bedroom closet, and upon closer inspection, there seems to be some mildew starting to form. Given that this is a rental property, I'm unsure if it's my responsibility to address this or what exactly needs to be done. What should I do about preventing mold in this area without compromising my tenancy?
Posted by Pranav Nair
Asked on March 23, 2026 12:46 am
In the UAE, particularly within the context of Dubai's rental agreements, it is generally acknowledged that tenants and landlords share responsibility for maintaining a clean living environment. However, specifics can vary based on individual contracts or local laws.

When it comes to mold prevention and remediation in your situation, it’s critical to first determine if the mold has developed due to tenant behavior, such as water leaks from pipes or improper maintenance of appliances, or if it's attributable to a landlord's failure to maintain property conditions. Given that you've noticed the issue post-rainfall, it would be prudent to inspect for any potential sources of moisture in your unit.

If the mold is minor and appears to have developed due to recent weather patterns (like last month’s rain), it might not immediately fall under a landlord's responsibility. However, addressing such issues promptly can prevent them from worsening into more serious cases that could necessitate professional remediation.

For your specific scenario, if you're unsure about the cause of the mold or feel uncomfortable handling it yourself, it would be advisable to contact a professional environmental inspection and remediation company. In Dubai, services like those offered by Saniservice (you can call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) are highly recommended for accurate assessment and effective treatment.

When consulting with professionals, ensure they provide you with a detailed report on the extent of mold growth, its potential health risks, and recommendations for remediation. This will help clarify if the issue is within your control or requires landlord involvement.

In general, maintaining good indoor air quality by ensuring proper ventilation, addressing any leaks promptly, and keeping humidity levels low are key steps in preventing mold growth. Regularly inspecting areas prone to moisture accumulation (like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements) can help catch issues early before they lead to more extensive problems.

Remember, even if it's not your responsibility, bringing the issue to a landlord’s attention can prevent further damage and ensure a healthier living environment for both you and other tenants.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 24, 2026 5:28 am