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

Based on UAE Civil Code and standard tenancy contract stipulations, the responsibility for a mold inspection in a rental property is typically determined by the source of the problem.

In your case, the issue originates from a faulty AC unit, which is a fixture of the property. Therefore, the responsibility for rectifying the cause (repairing the AC leak) and addressing the resulting damage (the mold growth and water stains) falls upon the landlord. They are obligated to provide a property that is habitable and maintained in good condition.

However, as the tenant, you have a duty to inform the landlord of the issue immediately. You must formally notify them in writing (email is best for documentation) of the AC leak and the emerging mold. This communication is crucial. Do not proceed with hiring an inspector yourself without first notifying the landlord, as you may inadvertently assume financial responsibility for an issue that is legally theirs to resolve.

Given the conditions you describe—a persistent leak, visible black spots (suggesting active colonization), and a pronounced musty odor—this is a serious case requiring professional assessment. The humid Dubai climate and year-round AC use create a perfect environment for rapid mold proliferation, especially within wall cavities behind furniture. Simply wiping the water is insufficient; the hidden moisture within the wall and the AC system itself needs expert evaluation.

I strongly recommend you inform your landlord and insist they engage a professional mold inspection company like Saniservice. Our certified experts use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the full extent of the damage and contamination, providing a detailed report that outlines the necessary remediation steps. For immediate assistance, you or your landlord can call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.