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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold inspection and remediation is typically governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The general principle is that the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues arising from the building's fabric, such as water seepage through external walls, leaking central AC systems, or faulty plumbing that leads to dampness.

However, the tenant is responsible for damages resulting from negligence or misuse. For instance, if the mold is caused by a tenant's failure to use the AC properly to control humidity, blocking ventilation grilles, or creating excessive moisture (e.g., from indoor drying of laundry), the financial responsibility would likely fall on the tenant.

Your situation in Discovery Gardens—mold on an external wall that worsened after heavy dew—strongly suggests an infiltration or condensation issue related to the building's envelope or insulation. This is a structural concern, making it the landlord's responsibility to investigate and rectify.

Given Dubai's high humidity and the propensity for condensation, especially in closets on external walls, a professional inspection is critical. DIY assessments are insufficient as they miss hidden mold and the true moisture source. A certified inspector will use tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the root cause.

We strongly recommend you notify your landlord in writing immediately, citing the issue. For a definitive assessment, you or your landlord can engage a specialist like Saniservice. We provide certified mold inspections and detailed reports that determine causation, which is essential for resolving tenancy disputes. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive evaluation.