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

My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks, and I just found a patch of black mold behind our wardrobe in the master bedroom, which is on the coldest wall of our apartment in Jumeirah. Our landlord is saying it's because we don't run the AC enough, but we keep it at 24°C. Who is legally responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection here in Dubai?
Posted by Francois Bakker
Asked on March 27, 2026 1:14 pm
In Dubai's climate, with its high humidity levels and the constant need for air conditioning, condensation is a primary cause of mold growth. The wall behind your wardrobe in Jumeirah is a classic case of a thermal bridge; it's the coldest surface in the room, causing moisture in the warm air to condense upon contact, creating the perfect environment for mold, even with your AC set at 24°C.

Legally, the responsibility for rectifying this issue and the associated costs depends on the root cause. According to common interpretations of UAE tenancy law, the landlord is typically responsible for the structural integrity of the property and issues arising from inherent building defects or faulty installations (like inadequate insulation or leaking AC drainage lines within the walls). If the mold is a result of such a defect, the landlord bears the cost of remediation and the necessary inspection to diagnose it.

However, if the tenant's lifestyle (e.g., insufficient ventilation, drying clothes indoors) is deemed the sole cause, responsibility could fall to them. Your case strongly suggests a structural thermal bridging issue, not negligence.

Given your children's health symptoms, a professional inspection is critical. A certified inspector will conduct a thorough assessment, including moisture mapping and thermal imaging, to identify the exact source of the moisture. This technical report is essential evidence to determine liability. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as disturbing the colony can exacerbate spore release.

For an authoritative diagnosis and a legally defensible report, I recommend you contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to arrange a comprehensive inspection. Our findings will clearly outline the cause and required corrective actions, which you can then present to your landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 10:57 am