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

In the UAE, particularly in high-humidity coastal areas like Dubai Marina, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is governed by the rental contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended (the 'Dubai Rental Law'). The general principle is that the landlord is responsible for the property's structural integrity and main building systems, while the tenant is responsible for day-to-day maintenance.

The landlord is typically responsible for remediating mold if its cause is a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or a construction flaw that allows water ingress. This falls under their obligation to provide a habitable property.

However, the tenant may be held responsible if the mold growth is a direct result of their negligence or lifestyle. In your case, with the mold originating behind a wardrobe, a professional inspection is critical to determine the root cause. In our humid climate, placing large furniture directly against an external wall can create a cold spot and trap condensation, which is a tenant-related issue. Conversely, the inspection may reveal a hidden leak from the air conditioning condensation line or a crack in the building envelope, which is the landlord's responsibility.

Given the potential health risks of Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) and the complexity of identifying the source, we strongly recommend you immediately contact a certified professional. Our team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive inspection, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to authoritatively determine the cause and provide a detailed remediation protocol. This report is essential for liaising with your landlord or building management to resolve the issue correctly and safely.

For an immediate assessment, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.