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

In Dubai's rental market, the responsibility for mold remediation is dictated by the nature and cause of the infestation, as outlined in general tenancy principles. The landlord is typically responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes ensuring the building envelope is sound, all plumbing is leak-free, and the air conditioning system is functioning correctly without causing condensation issues. If the mold is a direct result of a structural defect, such as a leaking AC unit (as you suspect), a burst pipe in the wall, or water seepage from external walls—common issues exacerbated by the UAE's high humidity—then the remediation cost falls squarely on the landlord.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition. If the mold growth is conclusively due to tenant negligence, such as failing to use the provided AC for dehumidification, chronic failure to ventilate bathrooms, or causing excessive moisture through daily activities without adequate exhaust, the financial responsibility can shift to the tenant. Landlords often cite "poor ventilation," but this is a gray area; the tenant must use the property reasonably, but the landlord must provide systems that function effectively.

Given your situation in Jumeirah Village Circle, the suspected AC leak is a critical factor. We strongly recommend you cease DIY investigation and engage a professional mold inspection company immediately. A certified inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and, crucially, use tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact moisture source. This technical report is vital evidence to definitively assign liability to your landlord.

For a comprehensive assessment and legally defensible report, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Our experts are trained to identify the root cause, whether it's a faulty AC unit, condensation due to thermal bridging, or another building-related issue, and provide the documentation needed to resolve the dispute with your landlord.