Who pays for mold removal: tenant or landlord in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the Dubai Landlord and Tenant Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the cause of the moisture.

Generally, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing leaks from plumbing, air conditioning systems, or the building envelope (like walls or windows) that are the root cause of the mold growth. If the black mold behind the wardrobe is due to a leaking pipe in the wall or a faulty AC unit, the financial responsibility for the repair of the leak and the subsequent professional mold remediation falls on the landlord.

However, as a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition. If the mold is determined to be a direct result of tenant negligence—such as failing to use provided ventilation fans, not reporting a minor leak in a timely manner, or lifestyle habits that create excessive humidity without adequate ventilation—you could be held liable for the cost of the cleanup.

Your use of a dehumidifier is a good step, but it's clearly not addressing the source. A persistent damp smell and hidden growth strongly indicate an ongoing moisture intrusion. The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue immediately. We strongly recommend you request a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector can use moisture meters and thermal imaging to identify the exact source of the moisture and provide a definitive report on the cause, which will clearly establish liability.

For a thorough assessment and to get that report for your landlord, you can call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Don't delay, as this is a health risk for your kids.