Is landlord responsible for black mold inspection cost?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. Since the mold is growing on a wall that feels damp, this strongly indicates a structural moisture issue, such as a leaking pipe, seepage from an external wall, or a fault in the AC condensation drain line. These are not considered tenant-caused damages, making the landlord responsible for the investigation and repair of the source.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the damp wall and visible mold, as this is a habitability and potential health concern. The landlord is typically responsible for the cost of identifying and repairing the source of the moisture intrusion. The inspection and remediation of the mold itself, which is a direct result of their building's moisture failure, should also be their financial responsibility.

For a case like this, a professional inspection is crucial. It will identify the exact moisture source and the type of mold present, which is necessary to resolve the problem permanently. In Dubai's high humidity, simply wiping away visible mold will not work; the underlying water issue must be fixed. A proper inspection provides a report you can share with the landlord to substantiate the required repairs. Document everything with photos and keep records of all communication. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai.