Who is responsible for mold inspection, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Our AC unit in the bedroom closet has been leaking a little for a while, and now I’m seeing black spots spreading on the wall behind our wardrobe. We’ve been in this Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for over a year, and my allergies have been terrible this past month. Who is responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection here, me or my landlord?
Posted by Aarti Kumar
Asked on March 20, 2026 7:37 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) and standard tenancy contract stipulations, the responsibility for maintenance and repairs of the property's core structure and fixed installations, such as the AC unit and associated plumbing, falls upon the landlord. Since the mold growth is a direct result of a leaking AC unit—a landlord-provided appliance—the obligation to rectify the source of the moisture and address the resultant damage is theirs.

However, the initial inspection to confirm the presence, type, and extent of mold is a critical first step. Given your described symptoms—active water intrusion, visible black sporulation, and adverse health effects—this constitutes a serious case requiring immediate professional assessment. In the humid Dubai climate, where AC systems run year-round, condensation issues are a primary cause of indoor mold. A superficial cleaning will not suffice; the hidden moisture within the wall cavity must be identified and remediated.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing of the issue, including photographs. We strongly recommend you insist on a certified mold inspection from a company like ours, Saniservice. Our experts use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact moisture source and extent of contamination, followed by air and surface sampling to identify the species, which is crucial for understanding health risks and planning remediation.

Do not attempt to handle this yourself, as disturbing the mold can exacerbate spore dispersal and your allergy symptoms. For a comprehensive inspection and a clear path to resolution, call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can provide the detailed report your landlord will need to authorize and scope the necessary repairs and remediation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 22, 2026 7:14 pm