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

My kids have been coughing non-stop since the heavy rains in Al Barsha last month, and I just found patches of black mold behind our bedroom wardrobe. I’ve been getting headaches that won’t go away, and the AC unit always smells damp no matter how much I clean the filter. Who is legally responsible for arranging and paying for the mold remediation here, the building management or me as the tenant?
Posted by Joseph Lee
Asked on March 8, 2026 2:07 am
Based on UAE Civil Code and Dubai's rental regulations, the responsibility for mold remediation typically falls on the landlord or property owner, as they are legally obligated to provide a habitable dwelling free from structural defects that affect health and safety. This includes issues arising from inherent building problems like poor waterproofing, leaking central AC systems, or construction flaws that allowed moisture ingress during the heavy rains in Al Barsha.

However, the tenant can be held financially responsible if the mold is proven to be a direct result of their negligence—for instance, failing to use the AC properly, not reporting a minor leak in a timely manner, or creating excessive moisture through their lifestyle without adequate ventilation. The black mold behind the wardrobe is a serious concern, especially with the health symptoms you described. This requires immediate professional inspection to determine the exact moisture source and extent of contamination.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord and building management in writing, detailing the issue and your health concerns. They should arrange for a professional assessment. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxins and worsen the situation.

For a definitive assessment and to document the issue for your landlord, I strongly recommend a certified mold inspection. Our team can identify the source, provide a detailed report on the health risks, and outline the necessary remediation protocol, which is often required to get the landlord to act.

Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Your family's health is paramount.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 10, 2026 8:10 pm