Is mold inspection the tenant's or landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai's climate, with high ambient humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning, the scenario you describe is unfortunately common. The persistent damp feeling and visible blackish-green patches are strong indicators of a mold colony, likely fueled by condensation issues, potentially from the AC unit itself or a hidden leak.

Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai and its amendments, the responsibility for major maintenance and structural repairs falls squarely on the landlord. This includes addressing issues that affect the habitability of the property, such as water infiltration and the resultant mold growth, which is a health and safety concern. As a tenant, your responsibility is typically limited to minor maintenance and informing the landlord of any such defects in a timely manner.

The best approach is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing (email is best for documentation), detailing the issue with clear photographs of the affected wall behind the wardrobe. Explicitly mention the persistent dampness and visible mold growth. Frame it as a request for them to conduct a professional mold inspection to determine the root cause—whether it's a leaking pipe, faulty AC drain line, or insufficient insulation.

We strongly advise against attempting to clean significant growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the problem. A certified inspection, like those we provide at Saniservice, involves moisture mapping, thermal imaging, and air quality testing to identify the exact moisture source and extent of contamination, providing a definitive report for the landlord. For a professional assessment, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.