Who pays for mold removal in Dubai rental apartments?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental apartment is primarily dictated by the nature and cause of the infestation, as outlined in standard tenancy contract provisions and the Dubai Civil Code.

The landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity of the property. Therefore, if the black mold growth is a result of a structural defect—such as a leaking pipe within the walls, faulty waterproofing on the external façade, or a construction issue that allows water ingress—the financial and remedial obligation falls on the landlord. You must report this to them or the building management immediately to address the root cause.

However, tenant responsibilities typically cover maintenance and issues arising from daily living. In our climate, where extreme humidity and year-round AC use are the norms, mold can form due to tenant-related factors. This includes inadequate ventilation (e.g., not using bathroom extractor fans), blocking AC vents, or failing to report minor leaks promptly, leading to condensation buildup. In such cases, the cost of cleaning the superficial mold may be the tenant's responsibility.

Given the description from your Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment—a spreading patch coinciding with a humidity spike—the cause is likely excessive ambient moisture, potentially exacerbated by the AC system's performance or a hidden condensation issue. We strongly recommend a professional inspection to determine the exact moisture source. DIY cleaning often fails because it addresses the visible growth, not the underlying water problem, leading to rapid regrowth.

For a definitive assessment and to understand your legal position, contact our certified inspectors at Saniservice. We provide detailed moisture mapping and lab analysis to identify the cause and produce a report that can be used with your landlord. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a consultation.