Who pays for mold inspection in rental: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

As a certified mold inspector operating in Dubai, this is a critical and frequently encountered question. The discovery of significant mold growth, especially in a high-value area like a Jumeirah villa, requires immediate and professional attention.

In the UAE, the responsibility for maintenance and repairs, which includes addressing the root cause of mold (e.g., leaking pipes, faulty AC drainage, structural water ingress), typically falls on the landlord as per the standard rental contract (Ejari). This is because these are issues related to the fundamental integrity of the property. The mold itself is a direct symptom of that underlying defect.

However, the initial inspection to identify the source and extent of the contamination can sometimes be a point of discussion. While the landlord is responsible for fixing the cause, a tenant may be liable for the cost of the inspection if the moisture problem is proven to be a result of their negligence (e.g., failure to use AC, blocking ventilation, interior damage they caused). Given your description of a hidden humidity issue behind a sofa, this strongly suggests a pre-existing building-related problem, not tenant negligence.

Given the health symptoms you describe and the visible growth, a DIY approach is not advisable. The black mold could be Stachybotrys, which requires professional handling. The humid Dubai climate, combined with year-round AC use, creates perfect conditions for such hidden growth if any minor leak exists.

My strong recommendation is to immediately contact your landlord or property management company, inform them of the discovery, and insist on a professional mold inspection. We at Saniservice are equipped to conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to definitively identify the source and scope. This report will be crucial for determining liability. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a survey. Do not disturb the area further, as this can release harmful spores.