Who pays for a mold inspection as a tenant?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for arranging and paying for a mold inspection is typically governed by the rental contract and the provisions of Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, commonly known as the 'Dubai Rental Law'.

Generally, the landlord is legally obligated to provide a property that is habitable and in good condition at the commencement of the tenancy. The tenant is responsible for maintaining the property in that same condition throughout the tenancy period. However, the distinction lies in the cause of the mold.

Mold resulting from a pre-existing structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the walls, a faulty waterproofing membrane, or a building envelope issue, is unequivocally the landlord's financial and remedial responsibility. Your description of an older building in Deira and the dampness appearing behind a stationary sofa strongly suggests a potential structural moisture intrusion, not tenant behavior.

While landlords may incorrectly attribute mold to high AC use, proper air conditioning is actually critical for controlling Dubai's extreme humidity and preventing condensation. The issue is more likely caused by insufficient AC, not excessive use. A professional inspection is necessary to definitively determine the moisture source.

As a tenant, you should formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue, as this starts the legal clock for their response. For an objective, legally defensible assessment, we strongly recommend you engage a certified third-party environmental inspector like Saniservice. Our inspection includes advanced moisture mapping and air quality testing to pinpoint the exact cause and origin of the moisture, providing an expert report that clarifies liability. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive assessment.