Is my landlord required to pay for a mold inspection?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental law, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and habitability of the property. This includes addressing issues like water leaks or seepage that lead to mold growth. However, the legal obligation to pay for an inspection itself can be less clear-cut and often depends on the source of the problem.

If the black spots behind your wardrobe are a direct result of a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe in the wall, a faulty external seal, or rising damp from a construction flaw, then the landlord is unequivocally responsible for the inspection and the subsequent remediation. The recent high humidity, while a contributing factor, often acts upon an existing moisture problem within the building envelope.

Your first step should be to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos of the mold and a description of your children's symptoms. They are obligated to investigate the cause. For health concerns, especially with children involved, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the mold type and moisture source. A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it uses moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden dampness and often includes air or surface sampling sent to a microbiology lab for analysis.

If the landlord refuses to act or denies responsibility without a proper investigation, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. They will determine liability based on the evidence of the property's condition. Given the health implications and the potential for the problem to worsen in our climate, securing a professional assessment is the most critical action to protect your family and clarify responsibility.