Who is responsible for mold inspection after a leak?« Back to Previous Page

The wall behind our sofa in the living room of our Jumeirah apartment feels damp and cold to the touch, and we've started seeing these small black speckles appearing along the skirting board. We reported a small water leak from the upstairs neighbor to the landlord a couple of months ago, but this seems to be getting worse. Who is responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection here, us as tenants or the building management?
Posted by Betty Williams
Asked on April 11, 2026 4:50 pm
Based on UAE Civil Code and the standard Ejari tenancy contract, the responsibility for the structural integrity of the property, including water leaks from external sources (like a neighboring apartment or a building pipe), falls upon the landlord. Since you have already reported the leak to the landlord, their obligation is to rectify the source of the moisture intrusion. The subsequent mold growth is a direct result of that unresolved issue.

The landlord is therefore responsible for arranging and paying for a professional mold inspection and subsequent remediation. The inspection is critical to determine the full extent of the contamination, as what you see on the surface is often just a fraction of the problem. The damp, cold wall suggests significant moisture retention within the wall cavity, a common issue exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and continuous AC use, which can create severe condensation problems.

I strongly advise against delaying this. You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for record-keeping) of the worsening condition, reiterating your previous report and insisting on a professional assessment. For a proper inspection, ensure the company conducts a visual assessment, moisture mapping with thermal imaging and moisture meters, and air/surface sampling to identify the mold species. This data is essential for crafting an effective remediation protocol.

For a certified inspection and a comprehensive report that clearly outlines liability and necessary corrective actions, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment. A professional report will protect your interests and ensure the health of your living environment is restored.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 11, 2026 6:35 pm