Who is responsible for mold removal in Dubai apartments?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the Dubai Municipality's building codes and tenancy laws (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for mold removal is typically determined by the source of the moisture.

The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues with the building envelope, such as leaking pipes, faulty external waterproofing, or defective AC drainage systems within the building's ducts that cause condensation and subsequent mold growth on walls. If the mold behind your sofa is a result of a chronic condensation issue from the AC unit's installation or a leak from an adjacent apartment, this falls under the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

However, responsibility can shift to the tenant if the moisture source is determined to be a result of occupant behavior, such as a failure to adequately ventilate the property, not using exhaust fans in bathrooms/kitchens, or intentionally blocking AC vents, which leads to excessive humidity and condensation.

Given your situation in the Marina, a high-humidity area, the most common culprit is an underlying HVAC issue. The dark, spreading patch indicates an active moisture source. You should immediately notify your landlord and building management in writing, with photos. They should engage a certified specialist to conduct a proper indoor environmental inspection to identify the exact moisture source. This report will definitively assign responsibility.

For a professional assessment and to ensure compliance with Dubai Municipality guidelines for safe remediation, we strongly advise calling our experts at 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com. Improper handling can exacerbate spore dispersal and health risks, especially with children present.