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

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of the building's structure, including the exterior walls and the underlying infrastructure that keeps the property habitable. Since the mold is growing from the wall itself and has been exacerbated by seasonal humidity, this is typically considered a structural issue. Your responsibility as a tenant is usually limited to minor maintenance and reporting issues in a timely manner.

The persistent humidity in Dubai, especially in older Deira buildings with less efficient AC systems, often leads to condensation within walls, which is a structural ventilation issue. You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) about the problem, including photos showing the progression. Mention your health concerns and the potential for damage to your property and their building fabric.

For a case this severe, a professional inspection is critical to determine the moisture source—whether it's an internal pipe leak, external water ingress, or condensation from poor insulation. This documented report from a certified inspector can be pivotal in your discussions with the landlord, as it provides concrete evidence of the underlying cause. If the landlord remains unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. They will often side with the tenant for habitability issues like this, but having a professional assessment strengthens your case immensely.