Who pays for hidden mold remediation in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility typically falls on the landlord to address structural issues leading to mold, including hidden cases. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords must provide a property that is habitable and in good repair. A hidden mold issue in a closet, likely stemming from a building envelope leak, inadequate insulation, or a faulty AC drain line, is generally considered a structural defect, not tenant negligence.

Your landlord's claim about ventilation is a common rebuttal, but Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use make condensation a persistent challenge in many buildings, particularly in areas with poor airflow like closets. While tenants are expected to use AC and exhaust fans to manage moisture, the burden is on the landlord to rectify the underlying cause—such as a leak or insufficient insulation—that allowed the mold to establish itself.

For a case involving health symptoms, a professional inspection is critical to document the source and extent. The inspection report will be your key evidence, distinguishing a building defect from a maintenance issue. If the report confirms a hidden structural problem, present it to the landlord with a formal request for remediation. If they refuse, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Center in Dubai (RDC). The cost of the initial inspection may be yours to bear, but if the landlord is found liable, you can seek to recover those costs. Remediation should always address the moisture source first, not just the visible mold.