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

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically governed by the tenancy contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property's main components, including the building envelope (walls, windows) and the AC system, which are primary contributors to condensation and mold growth in our humid climate. An exterior wall defect leading to water intrusion, as you've described, is almost certainly the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

However, the tenant is responsible for informing the landlord of such issues in a timely manner and for maintaining appropriate ventilation to prevent excess humidity, a common issue in Marina apartments due to year-round AC use leading to condensation. Your two-year tenancy may complicate this, as you must prove the mold resulted from a structural flaw and not from a lack of reporting or tenant-induced moisture.

Given the visible patch and your husband's health symptoms—a persistent cough is a classic indicator of mold exposure—this is a serious case requiring immediate professional attention. Do not attempt removal yourself, as disturbing the mold can aerosolize toxic spores and worsen health effects. You must formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue and request a professional mold inspection. This inspection will identify the precise moisture source and determine liability.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your health is protected, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. We provide certified mold inspections and testing that are legally recognized for tenancy disputes. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an investigation. We will identify the root cause and provide a detailed report you can present to your landlord to facilitate the necessary and legally required remediation.