Who is responsible for mold inspection and cleanup in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law, responsibility hinges on the source of the moisture. Landlords are responsible for structural repairs, including fixing leaks from external walls, roofs, or faulty plumbing that cause dampness. Tenants are responsible for damage resulting from their own negligence, like failing to use the AC properly or not ventilating rooms adequately.

Given the location behind a wardrobe on an external wall in Al Nahda, a building envelope leak is a strong possibility, especially with the recent humid weather. The constant AC use suggests you are taking steps to manage humidity, but in many older Dubai buildings, this is not enough to counteract a persistent leak. Your landlord's claim that it's solely due to ventilation is unlikely to hold if a professional inspection proves otherwise.

You should formally request in writing (email is best) that the landlord arranges for a professional inspection to determine the moisture source. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can spread spores. A proper inspection uses moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the leak's origin—this evidence is crucial for determining liability. The cleanup cost responsibility follows the inspection results; if it's structural, the landlord pays. If the inspection proves it's condensation from tenant lifestyle, you would be responsible. For a definitive answer, a professional diagnosis is essential.