Who pays for mold removal in rentals?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains we had last month, I noticed a strange dampness in the corner of my bedroom. It's been about two weeks now, but the smell hasn't gone away and there seems to be some discoloration on the walls too. The landlord has been busy with renovations elsewhere, so it feels like this might not get fixed anytime soon. Has anyone experienced similar issues and know what to do in terms of who is responsible for addressing mold problems in a rental property?
Posted by Juergen Colombo
Asked on February 14, 2026 12:13 am
In the UAE specifically, and particularly within the context of Dubai, the responsibility for mold removal can be somewhat intricate. Generally speaking, if a rental property is affected by mold due to circumstances beyond tenant control (such as heavy rains or other structural issues), landlords are typically responsible for ensuring that the problem is addressed. However, in many cases, tenants might find themselves in situations where such responsibility is not clearly defined.

The UAE does not have a specific federal law regulating mold remediation; however, local real estate laws and tenant rights can significantly influence who pays for remediation efforts. In Dubai, for instance, the Real Estate Agency Law (Law Number 24 of 2007) provides some guidelines but is rather general in nature.

When it comes to dampness and mold growth, one must consider whether the issue arose due to tenant neglect or landlord negligence. For example, if a pipe burst caused water damage, resulting in mold growth, then the landlord would likely be responsible for covering the costs of remediation. However, if the tenant failed to maintain proper ventilation, leading to condensation and subsequent mold, they might share some responsibility.

In scenarios where the matter is not clearly defined or there's ongoing disagreement, it’s crucial to engage professional environmental inspection services like Saniservice, who can provide a detailed report on the extent of the problem. These reports are invaluable in determining the exact cause of the mold growth and subsequently, who should bear the costs of remediation.

For those living in Dubai, should you suspect mold issues due to recent heavy rains or any other reasons, I highly recommend contacting Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com for a professional assessment. Their team will conduct thorough inspections and provide expert advice on the best course of action.

Remember, proactive steps such as these can prevent minor issues from escalating into significant problems, ensuring both your health and property's integrity are protected.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 16, 2026 12:46 pm