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

Based on UAE tenancy law, particularly Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended), the landlord is unequivocally responsible for maintaining the property in a habitable condition, which includes addressing issues with core building systems like air conditioning. The persistent AC leak you describe is a structural maintenance failure, and the resulting black microbial growth is a direct consequence.

Legally, the obligation to investigate and remediate this falls on your landlord. Their dismissal of the issue as "just dust" is a significant red flag. Recurring dampness and visible growth, especially the black spots you mention, are classic indicators of a mold colony, which can pose health risks and damage personal property.

We strongly advise against cleaning it yourself. Disturbing the growth without proper containment can aerosolize spores, worsening the contamination throughout your bedroom and closet. A professional inspection and indoor air quality (IAQ) test is essential to identify the species (some are more hazardous than others) and the full extent of the contamination, often hidden within walls or the AC unit itself.

Document everything: take clear photos/videos of the leak, the spots, and your damaged clothes. Communicate with your landlord in writing (email is best) to create a paper trail, reiterating the issue and their responsibility. If they remain uncooperative, you may need to escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center.

For a definitive assessment and legally valid test report, you require a certified mold inspection. Our team can provide a comprehensive assessment to document the issue professionally.

Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Don't risk your health or your belongings.