Who is responsible for mold removal in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily governed by the rental contract and the Civil Code, specifically Law No. (5) of 1985. Generally, the landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property, which includes addressing structural defects and maintenance issues that lead to mold, such as water leaks from plumbing, roofing, or faulty AC drainage systems within the building's structure.

However, the high humidity and condensation inherent to Dubai's climate, especially during the dew season, complicate this. If the mold growth is conclusively proven to be a result of tenant negligence—such as a severe lack of ventilation, failure to use the AC correctly, or internal moisture sources like drying clothes indoors—the responsibility could shift to the tenant. Landlords often cite this.

In your case in JVC, the location on the ceiling corner is a classic indicator of a condensation issue, likely exacerbated by thermal bridging where the building's internal frame meets the exterior wall. While running the AC constantly dehumidifies the air, if the unit is undersized, set too cold, or its drainage line is blocked, it can contribute to the problem rather than solve it.

Given the health symptoms and the dispute with your landlord, a professional inspection is critical. A certified mold assessor can determine the underlying moisture source through hygrometers and thermal imaging, providing an authoritative report on the cause. This report is essential for determining legal responsibility.

For a definitive assessment and remediation quote, I strongly recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our team can document the cause professionally, which is often necessary to resolve disputes with landlords under UAE tenancy law.