Who handles mold in Dubai rentals: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai's rental market, the responsibility for mold remediation is dictated by the tenancy contract and the nature of the issue, as per Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai (as amended). The key determinant is the root cause.

The landlord is legally obligated to handle mold remediation if the infestation stems from a structural or inherent defect in the property. This includes issues like leaking central AC ducts within the walls, faulty plumbing, inadequate waterproofing, or a building envelope failure that allows moisture ingress. These are considered failures to provide a habitable property as per the contract.

Conversely, the tenant is responsible if the mold is a direct result of their negligence or lifestyle. Examples include failing to use the AC adequately to control humidity, obstructing ventilation, causing internal water damage (e.g., overflowing baths), or failing to report a minor leak in a timely manner, allowing mold to proliferate.

Given your description—a spreading patch behind a wardrobe in a Jumeirah villa with recent AC issues—the cause is likely a combination of factors. The AC malfunction is a strong indicator of a landlord-responsible system failure, potentially causing excess humidity and condensation. However, placing furniture directly against an external wall can also trap moisture, a factor a tenant may be advised on.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection to definitively identify the moisture source. This certified report is crucial evidence for determining liability and ensuring the remediation addresses the cause, not just the visible mold. For immediate testing and a legally defensible assessment, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive evaluation.