Who's responsible for mold in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold in a rental property can be somewhat ambiguous without clear guidelines from the landlord or local regulations. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, there are certain expectations and obligations that both landlords and tenants should adhere to when it comes to maintaining living conditions.

Firstly, it's imperative to understand that under the Real Estate Law 2013 (Federal Decree-Law No. 19 of 2013), landlords are responsible for ensuring a property is in good condition upon delivery and during the tenancy period. This includes addressing structural issues such as water leaks or dampness which could lead to mold growth. However, tenants also have certain responsibilities; they should maintain cleanliness and inform the landlord about any issues within a reasonable timeframe.

In your specific case of noticing a musty smell in your bedroom closet adjacent to the bathroom, this is a clear indicator that mold may be present due to moisture accumulation. Given the recent rains and dampness you've noticed, it would be wise to act promptly. Mold can indeed trigger asthma symptoms, especially for those who have been exposed to it over time.

When dealing with suspected mold in a rental property, here are some steps you should take:

1. Document Your Findings: Take photographs of the affected areas and note down when you first noticed these issues.
2. Inform Your Landlord Promptly: Provide written communication (email or letter) to your landlord detailing the problem. Mention specific dates and times if possible, as well as any changes in your family's health that might be related to mold exposure.
3. Request a Professional Inspection: In serious cases like yours, it’s advisable to hire an independent environmental inspection company. Such professionals can provide accurate assessments of the mold situation. Here in Dubai, companies like Saniservice (hello@saniservice.com) or Mould Solutions could offer these services.
4. Follow Up Regularly: Keep a close eye on any changes and continue to communicate with your landlord regarding the progress made.

Regarding responsibilities: if the mold is found to be due to an issue that should have been addressed by the landlord (like a leaky pipe), they are generally responsible for remediation costs. However, if the tenant has not maintained proper cleanliness or allowed significant water damage, they may share some of this responsibility.

Remember, in Dubai and throughout the UAE, health safety is paramount. If your symptoms worsen or you suspect serious health issues related to mold exposure, seek medical advice immediately. Your well-being should always be prioritized.

Lastly, if your landlord fails to address these issues adequately, consider seeking legal advice from a real estate lawyer familiar with local regulations. The sooner the problem is addressed, the better for both your health and the property's value.