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

Based on UAE Civil Code and Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property that is free from structural defects. This includes addressing issues of dampness and mold that stem from inherent building flaws, such as lack of ventilation (e.g., a room with no window), pre-existing water leaks, or faulty AC systems. The landlord's responsibility is to maintain the property's main structure and ensure it is fit for human habitation.

However, tenant responsibilities, as outlined in the rental contract, typically include maintaining the property's cleanliness and ensuring adequate daily ventilation to prevent condensation. Dubai's high humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning create a significant risk for condensation, which can lead to mold if not managed.

In your case, the absence of a window is a critical structural defect that severely limits your ability to ventilate. This strongly suggests the root cause is a landlord responsibility. To resolve this, you must formally notify the landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) of the issue and request a professional mold inspection. Do not attempt to clean a large patch of black mold yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize toxic spores and worsen the health risks, particularly for children with respiratory issues.

For a definitive assessment of the cause and extent of contamination, I recommend you engage a certified environmental inspector. They will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and concentration levels, providing a legally admissible report. My company, Saniservice, specializes in such inspections and can provide the documentation needed to resolve liability with your landlord. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.