Who is responsible for mold remediation in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically determined by the source of the moisture. The landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for rectifying defects in the building's structure, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate external sealing that allows water ingress. These are considered structural maintenance issues.

However, if the mold is a direct result of tenant negligence—such as a failure to use the air conditioning system adequately to control the extreme Dubai humidity, improper ventilation leading to condensation, or damage caused by the tenant—then the responsibility and associated costs may fall to the tenant. Your landlord's assertion points to this argument.

Given your description of the wall behind the sofa in a Marina apartment, a common issue in high-humidity coastal areas, a professional inspection is critical to determine the exact cause. The persistent damp feeling suggests it could be condensation due to the temperature differential between the cool wall and the humid room air, exacerbated by the sofa blocking airflow. However, a hidden plumbing leak or capillary rising damp cannot be ruled out without expert diagnosis.

We strongly recommend you request a professional mold inspection from a company like Saniservice. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the precise moisture source and provide a definitive report on liability. This evidence is crucial for any discussion with your landlord. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.