Who is responsible for mold removal, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Based on my professional experience as a certified mold inspector in Dubai, the responsibility for mold removal is typically determined by the cause of the moisture. In the UAE, the tenancy law generally places the responsibility for structural repairs and maintenance of the property on the landlord. This includes fixing issues like leaking pipes, faulty AC drainage, or seepage through walls that lead to mold growth.

However, if the mold is a direct result of the tenant's negligence—such as failing to use the AC to control humidity, blocking ventilation, or creating excessive indoor moisture without proper exhaust—the responsibility for remediation may fall to the tenant. The climate in Jumeirah Village Triangle, with its extreme humidity and the necessity of year-round air conditioning to manage condensation, makes this a common point of contention.

Given your situation, where the mold appeared suddenly in a closet, this strongly suggests a hidden moisture source, such as a leak in the plumbing chase or a compromised AC condensation drain line. These are structural issues and are unequivocally the landlord's responsibility to investigate and repair. The mold remediation itself should be handled by professionals to ensure it is removed safely and completely, preventing regrowth and potential health risks.

I strongly recommend you immediately notify your landlord in writing and request a professional mold inspection. Our team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the exact moisture source and species of mold, providing a definitive report for your landlord. Do not attempt to clean significant black mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the problem. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.