Who pays for mold removal in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold removal in a rental property is primarily governed by the rental contract and the overarching Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Law Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai. This law stipulates that landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's basic structure, including all major installations related to plumbing, electricity, and air conditioning. Mold resulting from a structural defect, such as a leaking central AC unit, a roof leak, or faulty plumbing within the walls, is unequivocally the landlord's financial and legal responsibility to rectify.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintenance issues arising from their own negligence or misuse. In the unique Dubai climate, where extreme humidity and year-round AC use are the norm, tenant responsibilities include ensuring proper ventilation to prevent condensation and regularly maintaining AC drain pans and filters to avoid moisture buildup. If the mold is determined to be a direct result of the tenant failing to use the AC properly or not reporting a minor leak in a timely manner, the remediation costs could fall to them.

Given the situation you described—a patch spreading from the ceiling after a humidity spike—this strongly suggests an underlying moisture issue, likely a leak from the AC condensation line or a seepage problem from the apartment above. This is a structural maintenance issue. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, as delays can exacerbate the problem and potential health risks.

We strongly advise against DIY removal for black mold, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and significantly increase health risks and cross-contamination. A professional inspection is critical to identify the exact moisture source and species of mold, which dictates the correct remediation protocol. For a definitive assessment and to ensure the remediation costs are correctly assigned, contact our certified team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive inspection and a detailed report that can be presented to your landlord.