Who pays for mold removal if landlord suspects poor ventilation?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold removal in Dubai primarily depends on identifying the root cause, as outlined in Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007). If a leak from the building's structure, plumbing, or AC system is the source, the landlord is legally obligated to cover the cost of repairs and subsequent mold remediation.

The landlord's claim of poor ventilation is a common point of contention. While tenants must maintain reasonable ventilation, Dubai's extreme humidity and year-round AC use make condensation on exterior walls a frequent structural issue in high-rises, not solely a tenant-caused one. A wall that consistently feels damp strongly suggests an underlying leak or insufficient insulation, which falls under the landlord's responsibility to fix.

For this situation, with visible mold and persistent child health issues, a professional inspection is critical. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as disturbing toxic black mold can exacerbate health problems. An independent, certified inspection will identify the moisture source and mold species. This report is your key evidence. Present these documented findings to the landlord; if they refuse to act, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai, as the property is not in a habitable condition. The cost for the initial diagnostic inspection is typically the tenant's responsibility, but it is the essential first step to resolving the liability issue.