Who is responsible for mold remediation 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 Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai Law'. A common misconception, often cited by landlords, is that tenant behavior like inadequate ventilation is the sole cause. However, the law places the onus on the landlord to maintain the property in a condition fit for habitation, which includes addressing structural or maintenance issues that lead to mold.

The key factor is the root cause. In your case, the mold's origin at the AC unit point is highly significant. This strongly suggests a fault in the AC system itself (a clogged drain line, faulty insulation, or incorrect installation) or a building envelope issue (a leak in the wall or poor sealing around the unit). These are structural and maintenance defects that fall under the landlord's legal obligation to rectify. While tenants are responsible for general day-to-day upkeep and ventilating the property, they are not liable for repairs arising from inherent building faults. The recent humidity spike is a contributing environmental factor, not the root cause, and is a well-known challenge of the Dubai climate that property systems are required to manage.

Given the health symptoms your children are exhibiting, this is a serious matter that requires immediate professional attention. We strongly recommend a certified mold inspection to accurately identify the moisture source and type of mold, as this report will be crucial evidence in your discussions with the landlord. For expert assessment and legally compliant remediation to ensure your family's safety, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.