Who pays for mold remediation, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The ceiling in our master bedroom closet has a growing black mold patch, and it’s definitely gotten worse since the heavy rains in Sharjah a few weeks ago. The musty smell is now seeping into our clothes, and we're worried about our baby's allergies. Our landlord is saying it’s due to our AC use, but we run it constantly to fight the humidity. Who is legally responsible for arranging and paying for the mold remediation in a rental, us or the landlord?
Posted by Sultan Al-Hassan
Asked on March 26, 2026 8:55 pm
In the UAE, particularly Dubai and Sharjah, the legal responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically defined by the cause of the moisture intrusion. According to standard tenancy contract regulations (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for structural repairs and issues related to the building's integrity. The leak and water damage from the heavy rains in Sharjah constitute a structural issue, making the landlord responsible for the repair of the leak and the resultant mold remediation.

However, the landlord may argue that tenant behavior, such as AC use, is the cause. This is a common point of contention. While running the AC constantly is a necessary response to the extreme humidity, improper use (e.g., setting it too cold, leading to excessive condensation) or failure to maintain the AC unit's drip tray and drain line can contribute to moisture problems. The tenant is generally responsible for maintenance of appliances and ensuring their use does not cause damage.

Given your situation—a growing patch post-rainfall and a musty smell affecting your baby's health—this is a serious case requiring immediate professional attention. We strongly recommend a certified mold inspection to definitively identify the moisture source and extent of contamination. This expert report is crucial evidence for determining liability.

Do not attempt to remove this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate health risks and property contamination. For a definitive assessment and compliant remediation that addresses the root cause, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection and protect your family's health.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 27, 2026 9:11 pm