Is mold inspection a tenant or landlord responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet on the outside wall has started to feel damp, and I’ve just found a patch of black mold growing on the back of my winter clothes. This started after the heavy dew we had last week, and I'm worried it's getting worse. As a tenant in Jumeirah Village Circle, am I responsible for arranging and paying for a professional mold inspection, or is that the landlord's duty to handle?
Posted by Ravi Dubey
Asked on March 16, 2026 1:33 am
Based on the Dubai Land Department's (DLD) tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the responsibility for the property's structural integrity and major maintenance falls squarely on the landlord. This includes issues arising from the building's envelope, such as water seepage through external walls, faulty waterproofing, or leaking central AC systems that are part of the building's infrastructure. The dampness you describe on an outside wall in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) is a strong indicator of such an underlying structural or systemic issue, likely exacerbated by our high humidity and the condensation it causes.

As a tenant, your responsibility is typically limited to minor maintenance and the upkeep of the property's cleanliness. However, you are obligated to report any such defect to the landlord or property management company immediately in writing. Failure to report can sometimes be construed as negligence.

Given that you have visible mold growth on personal belongings and detectable dampness, this is a serious case that requires professional intervention. A DIY inspection is insufficient as it will not identify the hidden moisture source within the wall cavity. A certified mold inspector will use tools like thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the intrusion and assess the full extent of the contamination.

I strongly recommend you formally notify your landlord of the issue and insist on a professional mold inspection. For a comprehensive assessment that meets Dubai Municipality standards, you can contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. We will provide a detailed report that clearly outlines the cause and scope, which you can then use to ensure your landlord undertakes the necessary and correct remediation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 17, 2026 9:59 am