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

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai's unique climate with high humidity and year-round air conditioning use, mold growth is a common issue. The responsibility for a mold inspection hinges on the source of the problem, as defined by Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007).

Fundamentally, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and ensuring the property is habitable at the start of the tenancy. This includes addressing issues inherent to the property itself. If the mold behind your wardrobe is a result of a structural defect—such as a hidden water leak from a pipe in the wall, faulty waterproofing in the building envelope, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation within the wall cavity—then the landlord is unequivocally responsible for the inspection and subsequent remediation. The persistent damp smell you mention strongly suggests an underlying moisture issue beyond normal humidity.

However, the tenant is responsible for damages caused by their own negligence or misuse. If the mold is solely due to a tenant's action, like severely obstructing ventilation or failing to use the AC to control humidity, the cost could fall to them.

Given your description of black speckles spreading and a persistent damp smell in a Jumeirah villa, this indicates a serious, active growth likely driven by a hidden moisture source. We strongly recommend a professional inspection immediately. A certified inspector, like those at Saniservice, will use tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint the exact source of the moisture—which is critical for determining liability and implementing the correct solution. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the problem.

For a definitive assessment and to protect your health and property, call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.