Who is responsible for black mold inspection, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, responsibility for mold inspection typically falls on the landlord, as they are obligated to provide a habitable property free from defects that affect health and safety. Mold caused by a structural issue, like a leaking pipe in the wall or a faulty AC condensation drain, is their responsibility to investigate and rectify.

However, the cause must be determined. If the mold is a direct result of tenant behavior—such as chronic failure to use the AC, blocking ventilation, or creating excessive moisture without proper airflow—the tenant may be liable. Given your description of a hidden location and a dripping AC unit, this strongly suggests a maintenance or building envelope issue, which is the landlord's domain.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, and request a professional mold inspection. Do not attempt to clean significant mold yourself, as disturbing it can spread spores. A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it identifies the moisture source and may include air or surface sampling to determine the species, which dictates the remediation method.

For condensation-related issues, which are extremely common in Dubai's humid climate with year-round AC use, ensuring your AC unit is serviced and draining properly is crucial. A professional inspection can verify this and provide the evidence needed to clearly establish responsibility for the necessary repairs and remediation.