Who pays for mold inspection: tenant or landlord in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold inspection and remediation is primarily determined by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, also known as the Dubai Rental Law. The law generally places the obligation of major maintenance on the landlord. This includes structural issues, external wall defects, and problems with central air conditioning systems that lead to conditions like mold growth.

However, the tenant is responsible for minor maintenance resulting from their own negligence or misuse. In your Mirdif case, the leaking AC unit is the critical factor. If the leak is due to a lack of maintenance (e.g., not cleaning the drain line or changing filters), the tenant is typically responsible for rectifying that specific issue. But if the leak is due to a faulty installation, an aging unit, or a structural problem with the AC system itself, it falls under the landlord's purview. The resulting mold damage from that leak is a consequence of the initial problem.

Given the visible black spots and the dampness, this is a serious case requiring professional assessment. The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create a perfect environment for toxic mold like Stachybotrys (black mold) to thrive behind furniture and within wall cavities. A DIY inspection is insufficient as it misses hidden contamination and identifies the species.

You must formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue and the leaking AC, as this is a health and safety concern. We strongly recommend a professional mold inspection from a certified company like Saniservice. Our experts use thermal imaging, moisture meters, and air/o-surface sampling to identify the source, extent, and species of mold. This detailed report is crucial evidence to definitively determine liability between tenant and landlord. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive assessment.