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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation costs is primarily determined by the cause of the mold growth, as outlined in the rental contract and tenancy law. The landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity of the property. Therefore, if the mold is a result of a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the walls, a crack in the external building envelope, or faulty construction that allows water ingress, the financial responsibility for the remediation falls on the landlord.

However, as a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition. If the mold growth is determined to be a direct result of tenant negligence—such as failing to use the AC to control humidity, not ventilating high-moisture areas like bathrooms, or blocking ventilation points with furniture (like the wardrobe in your case)—you may be liable for the cost. Dubai's humid climate and the necessity of year-round air conditioning mean that proper AC operation is critical to prevent condensation, which is a primary driver of hidden mold growth behind furniture and on cold walls.

Given that the mold in your Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment was hidden and has been spreading, a professional inspection is essential to determine the root cause. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the source of the moisture conclusively. This report is vital for discussing responsibility with your landlord or building management. For a definitive assessment and a compliant remediation plan, I strongly recommend contacting our team. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection with Saniservice.