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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation is primarily determined by the tenancy contract and the cause of the mold growth, as guided by the Dubai Rental Law. The landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, including addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation that leads to condensation within the walls.

As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition. This includes ensuring adequate ventilation by not overfilling closets and regularly running the AC to manage humidity. The conditions you describe—a cold closet with poor air circulation behind boxes in a humid climate—are a classic recipe for condensation, which fuels mold growth. Your first action should be to improve ventilation and remove the boxes to allow the area to dry.

However, the dampness you feel on the wall is a significant red flag. This suggests a potential underlying issue that may extend beyond surface condensation, such as a hidden pipe leak or capillary rising damp from a structural defect. In such cases, the responsibility likely falls to the landlord.

We strongly recommend a professional mold inspection to definitively identify the moisture source and the extent of contamination. Our certified inspectors use tools like thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the origin without destructive testing. This evidence-based report is crucial for determining liability and the required scope of remediation.

For a definitive assessment and to discuss your specific situation with our experts, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.