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

The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking on and off for a couple of months, and now I’ve found black mold spreading on the wall behind my clothes. I’ve told my landlord’s maintenance guy twice, but he just wipes it and it comes back worse. Who is legally responsible for paying for a proper mold remediation service here, me or the landlord?
Posted by Jacob Davis
Asked on March 20, 2026 6:06 pm
Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 and its amendments, the landlord is almost always legally responsible for the cost of structural repairs and maintenance, including issues arising from inherent building faults like a leaking AC unit. This responsibility is a cornerstone of the landlord-tenant relationship here in Dubai.

The recurring leak is a clear maintenance failure. The landlord's attempt to simply wipe the mold is completely insufficient and a major health risk. Mold remediation requires addressing the source of moisture first—fixing the AC leak—followed by professional containment, removal of contaminated materials (like that section of drywall), and hygienization of the area to prevent recurrence. Wiping it just spreads the spores.

Your responsibility as a tenant is to report the issue promptly, which you've done multiple times. Document everything: take dated photos/videos of the leak and mold growth, and keep records of all communications with the maintenance guy and landlord. Send a formal written notice to the landlord, perhaps by email, reiterating the issue and the failed attempts to fix it, and insist on a professional solution.

For a case this persistent, a professional inspection is critical to assess the full extent of the contamination, which often spreads behind walls. We strongly recommend you call in a certified expert to provide a formal report, which can be used to compel your landlord to act. For immediate assistance, you can reach our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com. Don't let this continue, as prolonged exposure poses significant health risks.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 22, 2026 2:18 am