Who is responsible for fixing mold in a rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page
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We've been in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for about a year and just pulled out the sofa to find a huge patch of black mold growing on the wall behind it. The humidity has been brutal lately, and I'm worried it's been there a while. Who is responsible for getting this professionally inspected and fixed—is it me as the tenant or is the landlord supposed to handle it?
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Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the cause of the issue. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structural integrity and ensure it is habitable. If the mold growth is a result of a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the walls, a faulty AC system leading to excessive condensation, or water seepage from the building envelope, the financial responsibility for both the professional inspection and the subsequent remediation falls squarely on the landlord.
However, as a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and well-ventilated condition. In the high-humidity climate of Dubai, this requires proactive measures. If the mold is determined to be a direct result of tenant negligence—such as failing to use the AC to control humidity, blocking ventilation ducts, or not reporting a minor leak in a timely manner—you could be held liable for the costs. Given your situation in Jumeirah Village Circle, where the mold is significant and hidden behind furniture, a professional inspection is absolutely critical. This inspection will identify the exact species of mold and, most importantly, the precise moisture source. This technical report is the definitive document that establishes liability. We strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores and spread the contamination. For a definitive assessment and to protect your interests, contact our certified specialists at Saniservice. We provide comprehensive mold inspections, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to identify the root cause and produce a report for your landlord. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an investigation. |
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