Who is responsible for mold inspection costs in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing more than usual, and I've just found patches of black mold behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom in Jumeirah Village Circle. We've been in this rental for about a year, but this only started appearing after the recent humid weather. Who is responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection here, me as the tenant or my landlord?
Posted by Dana Al-Mansour
Asked on May 15, 2026 6:40 pm
In Dubai rentals, the responsibility for mold inspection costs depends on the source of the moisture. The landlord is generally responsible for addressing structural issues causing the mold, such as leaking pipes, faulty AC drainage, or water seepage from outside. However, if the moisture is due to tenant behavior—like inadequate ventilation, drying clothes indoors, or not running the AC consistently—the tenant may be liable.

Given your description of black mold appearing after humid weather behind furniture, this strongly suggests a condensation issue, which is a common problem in JVC due to our climate. The constant AC use creates cold surfaces, and when humid air meets them, condensation forms, especially in poorly ventilated areas like behind wardrobes. This is often a building ventilation issue, which falls under the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

For a case with visible growth and health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the mold species and the exact moisture source. You should formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue and your children's symptoms. Request that they arrange and pay for a proper diagnostic inspection, as it is in their interest to protect their property from further damage. A reputable inspection will use lab analysis to provide evidence of the root cause, which is crucial for determining responsibility for both the inspection cost and the subsequent remediation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 17, 2026 11:11 am