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

Based on the Dubai Rental Law and the standard tenancy contract (Ejari), the responsibility for mold remediation falls primarily on the landlord if the cause is a structural or maintenance-related defect, such as a hidden water leak, faulty waterproofing, or a leaking AC condensation line within the building's structure. The landlord is obligated to maintain the property's structure and ensure it is habitable.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent condensation, which is a significant issue in Dubai's humid climate. Running the AC constantly without occasionally opening windows to release trapped moisture can exacerbate the problem, as AC units cool the air but do not always effectively manage humidity levels. If the landlord can prove the mold growth is solely due to tenant negligence (e.g., completely blocking ventilation, creating excessive indoor humidity without any underlying leak), the cost burden could shift.

In your case in Jumeirah Village Circle, the presence of a "huge patch" strongly suggests a persistent moisture source, likely a concealed leak, which is a structural issue. Your landlord's claim may not hold under scrutiny. We strongly recommend you do not attempt removal yourself, as disturbing toxic black mold can aerosolize spores and worsen health issues like the coughing your children are experiencing.

To definitively determine liability and the required remediation, a professional inspection is essential. A certified mold assessor can identify the exact species and, crucially, use moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint the source of the water intrusion. This report will provide the evidence needed to resolve the dispute with your landlord.

For a comprehensive assessment and a legally valid report, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.