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 primarily governed by the rental contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai Law'.

The general legal principle is that the landlord is responsible for the maintenance of the main structure of the property, including issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking central AC systems, or structural cracks that allow moisture ingress. If the black fuzzy patches behind your sofa in JVC are a result of a hidden pipe leak or a flaw in the building's exterior envelope, the financial responsibility for the investigation and remediation would typically fall on the landlord.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintenance resulting from their own misuse or negligence. In Dubai's extreme climate, this often centers on humidity control. If the mold growth is determined to be due to a lack of adequate ventilation—for instance, not using the AC consistently to manage indoor humidity, blocking AC vents with furniture, or failing to use exhaust fans—the tenant may be held liable for the cost of cleaning. The persistent high humidity, especially during summer months, requires year-round climate control to prevent condensation, which is a primary catalyst for mold growth on walls and behind furniture.

Given that the mold is spreading, this indicates an active moisture problem. We strongly recommend you immediately notify your landlord or property manager in writing. For an accurate assessment of the moisture source and to determine liability, a professional inspection is essential. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact cause. Do not attempt remediation yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate spore dispersal. For a definitive diagnosis and a legally valid report, call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.