Who pays for mold inspection in a Marina apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Your tenancy contract is the primary document that dictates responsibility. In most Marina apartment leases, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and habitability of the property, which includes addressing issues like persistent mold that arise from building defects (e.g., a hidden water leak, faulty external sealing, or rising damp). The tenant is typically responsible for issues caused by their own actions, like poor ventilation or interior water damage.

Since the mold is on a wardrobe against an external wall and worsened with humidity, it strongly suggests a condensation or infiltration issue, which often falls under the landlord's purview. You should immediately notify your landlord or property management in writing, with clear photos. They are generally obligated to arrange and pay for the initial diagnostic inspection to determine the root cause.

For a proper assessment, a professional inspection is key. The humid Dubai climate, combined with year-round AC use, creates perfect conditions for mold in poorly insulated apartments. A thorough inspection by a company with a microbiology lab can identify the mold species and its moisture source, which is critical evidence for determining liability and the required remediation scope. This documented proof is often necessary to get the landlord to act and cover the costs.