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

Excellent question, and a very common point of confusion for residents here in Dubai. The responsibility for mold remediation costs is primarily determined by the source of the moisture problem, as outlined in Dubai rental law.

Generally, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the building and the maintenance of its core systems. This includes fixing leaks from plumbing, repairing faulty window seals, and ensuring the AC system—including the central ductwork—is functioning correctly. If the mold growth is a direct result of such an issue (e.g., a leaking pipe in the wall or contaminated central AC ducts), the financial responsibility for the investigation and remediation falls on the landlord.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition. This includes operating the AC appropriately to manage humidity, ensuring proper ventilation to prevent condensation, and promptly reporting any leaks or signs of moisture to the landlord. If the mold is determined to be caused by tenant negligence—such as failing to use the AC, blocking ventilation, or not reporting a minor leak that escalated—the costs could be attributed to the tenant.

Given your situation in JVC, where you've spotted growth and have health concerns, your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the suspected mold and your children's respiratory issues. We strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it can exacerbate the asthma symptoms.

For a definitive answer on liability and to protect your family's health, a professional inspection is crucial. We can identify the exact species of mold and, most importantly, pinpoint the moisture source to determine responsibility. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment.