Is landlord or tenant responsible for mold inspection?« Back to Previous Page
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We’ve lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold growing in the corner of our master bedroom closet, which shares a wall with the bathroom. It’s gotten worse since the humidity spiked last month. As a tenant, am I responsible for getting and paying for a professional mold inspection, or is that something the landlord has to handle?
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In the UAE, the responsibility for mold inspection and remediation is primarily governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. Typically, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes within the walls or faulty external waterproofing that lead to dampness and mold. As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and hygienic condition, including ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent condensation.
Given your description of the mold in a closet sharing a wall with a bathroom, the cause is likely due to a persistent humidity source. The year-round use of AC in Dubai's climate can create significant condensation issues if systems are not properly maintained or if ventilation is inadequate. The recent humidity spike would certainly exacerbate this. The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, as they are obligated to investigate the root cause. If the mold is a result of a building defect, the inspection and subsequent remediation cost falls on them. However, due to the potential health risks and the complexity of identifying the exact moisture source (e.g., a hidden pipe leak vs. condensation from poor ventilation), a professional inspection is strongly recommended. DIY assessments often miss the underlying problem. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use tools like thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to accurately diagnose the source before any remediation can be properly scoped. For a definitive assessment and to ensure your landlord addresses their responsibilities, I advise you to contact our team. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection. |
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