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

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold that’s been creeping along the corner of my bedroom wall in Silicon Oasis ever since that last big storm. I wiped it down with vinegar, but it just came back worse. I’m not sure if this is something I should handle myself or if my landlord is responsible for fixing the root cause. Who is legally obligated to deal with mold remediation in a rental here?
Posted by Karen Garcia
Asked on March 19, 2026 2:16 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code and common tenancy law provisions in Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically shared, but the primary legal obligation to address the root cause falls upon the landlord.

The landlord is legally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing issues that lead to mold growth, such as leaking pipes, cracks in the building envelope, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation that causes condensation—a common issue in Dubai due to the extreme humidity and year-round AC use, which can create significant temperature differentials. Your description of the mold returning after a storm strongly suggests an ongoing moisture intrusion, which is the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

Your responsibility as a tenant generally involves maintaining cleanliness, ensuring proper ventilation to reduce humidity buildup, and promptly reporting any issues like leaks or dampness to the landlord in writing. Attempting to clean it yourself with vinegar is a common but often ineffective DIY approach for a persistent problem, as it only addresses the surface growth and not the underlying moisture source, hence its rapid return.

For a situation like this, especially with health symptoms present, a professional inspection is critical. We at Saniservice use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to identify the exact source of the water intrusion and conduct air and surface sampling to determine the spore count and species, which is essential for understanding the health risk and planning the correct remediation protocol. This documented report is invaluable for formally liaising with your landlord or property management company to ensure the issue is properly resolved.

Do not delay. For a professional assessment and to get the documentation needed to address this with your landlord, call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 20, 2026 5:54 am