Who pays to fix mold and humidity issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell coming from the corner of the living room. The AC in my apartment seems to struggle to keep up with the humidity levels even when it’s not particularly hot outside. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed that the walls are starting to show signs of mildew. Who is responsible for addressing these issues—me or the landlord?
Posted by Linda Anderson
Asked on January 21, 2026 9:51 am
In the context of high humidity and mold issues within your apartment in Dubai/UAE, determining who is responsible for addressing these concerns can be a bit complex. Firstly, it's crucial to understand that the regulations regarding building maintenance and remediation practices might differ from other regions; hence, understanding the local laws is key.

According to the UAE's Building Maintenance Regulations (BMR) 2018, which specifically apply to private residential buildings in Dubai, the landlord has a legal obligation to ensure the property remains in good condition. This includes addressing any structural issues that might lead to high humidity and mold growth. However, it’s important to note that some of these regulations might not cover minor or temporary conditions caused by external factors like recent rain.

Given your observations, it appears that there are significant indoor environmental quality (IEQ) issues at play here. The musty smell, wall signs of mildew, and the AC struggling to control humidity levels despite the weather being mild – all suggest a serious problem that might require immediate attention. It is recommended to have a professional inspection conducted by experts familiar with the UAE market.

Such an inspection can help identify if the issue is due to improper ventilation, faulty HVAC systems, or perhaps even structural issues like leaks from plumbing or roof damage. These findings will be critical in determining who should bear the financial responsibility for remediation. Typically, if the cause of high humidity and mold is related to property maintenance issues that are under the landlord's control—such as inadequate water management systems or poor ventilation—the landlord would likely be responsible.

However, if the problem can be attributed to misuse by tenants (like overloading HVAC systems) or if it’s a result of external factors not within the landlord's control, then part of the responsibility might shift. In such cases, a detailed investigation and perhaps even legal advice may be necessary.

For immediate action, contact your local environmental services hotline at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for professional assistance. They can guide you through the process of assessing the situation and recommend appropriate remediation steps. Remember, addressing mold issues promptly is not only about improving indoor air quality but also preventing potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to mold.

In summary, while it's often the landlord’s responsibility to maintain a property in good condition, the specific circumstances might alter this dynamic. A professional inspection can clarify who should cover the costs of remediation and ensure your living environment is healthy and safe.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 23, 2026 6:43 pm