Who is responsible for mold removal: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code and standard tenancy contract provisions, the responsibility for mold removal typically falls on the landlord or property management, as they are responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the building envelope.

The key factor is the root cause. If the mold growth is a result of a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the walls, a faulty AC drain line, water seepage from external walls or the roof, or inadequate waterproofing, the remediation cost is the landlord's obligation. These are considered maintenance issues pertaining to the property itself.

However, as a tenant, your responsibility lies in maintaining the property in a clean and well-ventilated condition. The humid climate of Dubai, combined with year-round AC use, creates significant condensation risks. If the investigation determines the mold was caused by tenant behavior—such as severely obstructing ventilation grilles, failing to use the AC to control humidity, improper drying of wet items, or failing to report a minor leak in a timely manner which then escalated—you could be held liable for the resulting damage and remediation costs.

In your specific case at Jumeirah Village Circle, the location behind boxes in a closet strongly suggests inadequate air circulation is the primary cause. However, a professional inspection is critical to rule out any hidden plumbing or envelope leaks. We strongly recommend you immediately report the issue in writing to your landlord and building management and request a professional mold inspection to determine the exact source of the moisture.

For a definitive assessment and a remediation plan that complies with Dubai Municipality standards, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.