Is my Dubai landlord responsible for mold inspection?« Back to Previous Page

The corner of my bedroom wall, behind the wardrobe, has started showing these black patches that seem to be spreading. It’s been getting worse since the humidity spiked a couple of weeks ago, and I’m worried it’s making my allergies act up. My tenancy contract isn’t very clear about maintenance issues like this. Am I responsible for paying for a mold inspection myself, or is this something the landlord in Dubai has to handle?
Posted by Rashmi Pillai
Asked on March 22, 2026 3:35 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code and common tenancy law precedents in Dubai, the responsibility for structural maintenance, which includes addressing the root cause of mold growth, typically falls upon the landlord. Mold resulting from inherent building issues like leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or structural defects that allow moisture ingress is their legal obligation to rectify.

However, the situation can become more complex. If the mold is determined to be a direct result of tenant behavior, such as inadequate ventilation, failure to use the AC to control humidity, or damage caused by the tenant, the cost of remediation may be shifted. The black patches behind your wardrobe are a significant red flag. This location is a classic source of condensation issues, where cool external walls meet the warm, stagnant, humid air of the room—a common phenomenon in Dubai's climate where AC is run year-round. This creates the perfect environment for mold.

Given that the issue is spreading and affecting your health, a professional inspection is not just recommended, it is critical. A certified inspector will not only identify the type of mold but, more importantly, use tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging to diagnose the exact source of the moisture. This evidence is crucial for determining liability between you and your landlord.

Do not attempt to simply clean it yourself, as this will not address the underlying moisture problem and it will return. For a definitive diagnosis and a report that can be presented to your landlord, you need a professional assessment. I recommend you contact Saniservice for a comprehensive mold inspection. They can provide a detailed report outlining the cause and the required remediation steps, which you can then formally present to your property manager or landlord.

Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection and protect your health and your tenancy rights.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 23, 2026 11:58 pm