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

Based on Dubai rental law and the standard tenancy contract (Ejari), the responsibility for maintenance and repairs of the property's main structure, including walls and any issues arising from inherent building defects or pre-existing conditions, falls upon the landlord.

However, the situation is nuanced. If the mold growth is a direct result of tenant negligence—such as failure to use the provided air conditioning system adequately to control humidity, improper ventilation leading to excessive condensation, or damage caused by the tenant that allowed moisture ingress (e.g., a spill not reported)—then the cost of inspection and remediation could be the tenant's responsibility.

Given your description of the mold behind a wardrobe in JVC, a high-humidity area, this is a common issue. The persistent dampness suggests a potential combination of factors: the Dubai climate creating extreme condensation, the wardrobe restricting airflow against the wall, and possibly an underlying issue like a minor hidden pipe leak or insufficient insulation. Determining the root cause requires a professional inspection.

My strong recommendation is to immediately inform your landlord or property management company in writing. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can spread spores. A certified mold inspection is crucial to identify the moisture source and the mold species. The inspector's report will definitively assign liability. For this, contact a specialist like Saniservice. Our experts use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact cause, which is essential for determining responsibility. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment.