Who pays for mold inspection, tenant or landlord in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

My bedroom closet on the outside wall has started to feel damp, and I just found a patch of black mold on my leather jackets. We've had the AC running constantly, but with all the humidity lately in Dubai, it doesn't seem to be enough. Who is responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection here, me as the tenant or my landlord?
Posted by Raj Banerjee
Asked on March 24, 2026 8:17 am
In Dubai's climate, where high external humidity and constant air conditioning create significant condensation risks, mold growth in closets on external walls is a common issue. The responsibility for arranging and paying for a mold inspection is typically dictated by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law.

Generally, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty external wall insulation, leaking pipes within the walls, or a malfunctioning central AC system that fails to control humidity adequately. If the dampness is a result of such a structural issue, the landlord is legally obligated to rectify it, which includes funding a professional mold inspection to determine the root cause and full extent of contamination.

However, the tenant is responsible for damages caused by their own negligence or misuse. This would include scenarios where the dampness is a direct result of inadequate ventilation, such as overfilling the closet or blocking air vents, rather than a structural defect.

Given that the mold is on an external wall and the AC is running constantly, this strongly suggests a condensation issue potentially exacerbated by poor thermal insulation—a structural concern. We strongly advise against attempting to clean it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores. You must formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue immediately. Request that they arrange for a certified mold inspection from a company like Saniservice. Our experts use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to identify the precise source of the moisture and conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and concentration. This detailed report is essential to definitively assign responsibility and plan an effective remediation strategy.

For immediate professional assistance, you can call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 26, 2026 9:03 am