Is landlord responsible for mold inspection cost in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing more than usual, and I’ve just found a patch of black mold behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment. We’ve been here for almost a year and I’m worried it’s been growing slowly the whole time. Is getting a professional mold inspection the landlord's responsibility to pay for, or is that on me as the tenant?
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In Dubai, the responsibility for mold inspection costs depends on the source of the moisture. Under the rental law, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. If the mold is due to a building defect like a leaking pipe, faulty waterproofing, or a compromised AC unit, the landlord is typically responsible for the inspection and remediation costs.
However, if the moisture source is tenant-related, such as insufficient ventilation, drying clothes indoors, or not using AC consistently in humid conditions, the tenant may be liable. The persistent humidity in Dubai, especially during summer, means AC must run regularly to manage condensation and prevent mold growth in enclosed spaces like behind furniture. Given your description—a hidden patch found behind a wardrobe in a Jumeirah Village Circle apartment with ongoing health symptoms—a professional inspection is strongly recommended to identify the species and source. This provides documented evidence for any discussions with your landlord. Start by formally notifying your landlord in writing about the issue. They may agree to arrange and pay for the inspection, especially if you can point to a potential structural cause. If they refuse, you might need to commission the inspection yourself to establish the facts, as the report will be crucial for the Dubai Rental Dispute Center if a resolution cannot be reached. |
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