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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily determined by the cause of the mold growth, as outlined in Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, commonly known as the 'RERA Law'.

The landlord is legally obligated to provide a property that is habitable and in good condition at the start of the tenancy. If the mold is a result of a structural defect, a hidden leak in the plumbing, or a failure in the building's AC system, the responsibility for repairs and subsequent mold removal falls squarely on the landlord. Your situation in JVC, with a suspected hidden leak, is a classic example of a landlord's responsibility.

However, a tenant can be held liable if the mold is proven to be a direct result of their negligence. This includes failure to use the AC adequately to control humidity (a critical factor in Dubai's climate), causing excessive condensation, poor ventilation, or failing to report a minor water spillage that was left to fester.

Given that the mold is in the back of a wardrobe and likely from a leak, this is almost certainly a structural issue. "Surface level" is a misnomer; mold on a surface indicates a underlying moisture problem. We strongly recommend you insist on a professional inspection. A certified mold assessor can identify the true moisture source and provide a definitive report on the cause, which is essential for determining liability.

Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and exacerbate the problem. For a definitive inspection and a remediation plan that complies with Dubai Municipality standards, we advise you to contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an expert assessment and to protect your health and your tenancy rights.