Who pays for mold inspection and removal in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility typically falls on the landlord to cover the cost of inspection and remediation for mold caused by a structural issue, which a leak likely is. Your landlord's claim that AC overuse causes mold is incorrect; systems properly manage humidity. The recent humidity spike is a known trigger, but the underlying cause is often excess moisture from a hidden leak or inadequate insulation, especially in older Discovery Gardens buildings.

Legally, Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended) regulates landlord-tenant responsibilities. The landlord is obligated to provide a property maintained in a habitable condition, which includes addressing structural defects leading to water intrusion. The tenant is generally responsible for damage resulting from their own misuse or negligence.

Given the mold is on an interior wall, a professional inspection is crucial to determine the moisture source. This is not a simple surface cleaning job. An inspection using a thermal camera and moisture meter can identify if the wall cavity is wet from a leaking pipe or inadequate vapour barrier, which would be the landlord's responsibility. If the inspection proves the mold resulted from a maintenance issue you caused (e.g., a spill you didn't report), you would be liable.

Document everything with photos and formally request in writing that the landlord investigate the potential leak. For a definitive answer on liability, the inspection report from a certified provider is your most important evidence.