Who is responsible for mold removal, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for a few weeks and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found growing behind our bedroom wardrobe. We’ve lived in this Discovery Gardens apartment for two years, but it’s been way worse since the humidity spiked. Who is responsible for handling this and the potential health issues – me as the tenant or the landlord?
Posted by Fang Wu
Asked on March 19, 2026 4:46 am
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold removal is typically dictated by the tenancy contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing the root cause of the mold, such as a leaking pipe, faulty waterproofing, or a construction defect in the building envelope. The tenant is usually responsible for reporting the issue in a timely manner and for maintaining the property through adequate ventilation and cleaning to prevent issues caused by their own negligence.

Your situation in Discovery Gardens, where humidity has exacerbated a hidden mold problem, is a common scenario in Dubai. The climate, with its high humidity levels and year-round reliance on air conditioning, creates significant condensation risks, especially behind large furniture like wardrobes that are placed against external walls. The persistent cough in your children is a serious health indicator that should not be ignored, as prolonged exposure to mycotoxins from species like Stachybotrys (black mold) can lead to chronic respiratory issues.

The first actionable step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the discovery, including photos and mentioning the associated health symptoms. They are obligated to investigate and rectify the source of the moisture. However, for a definitive assessment of both the infestation and the health risks, a professional inspection is critical. Our certified teams at Saniservice use tools like thermal imaging cameras and borescopes to identify the moisture source and extent of contamination, followed by air and surface sampling to speciate the mold and determine remediation protocols.

For immediate advice and to schedule a comprehensive inspection to protect your family's health, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 20, 2026 5:26 pm