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

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically dictated by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking central AC systems, or structural leaks from adjacent units. The persistent humidity and year-round AC use in Dubai create a high-risk environment for condensation, often within wall cavities, which is a structural concern.

However, as the tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and hygienic condition. If the mold growth is a direct result of tenant negligence, such as a failure to use the AC properly to control humidity, inadequate ventilation (e.g., not using bathroom extractor fans), or introducing excessive moisture, the remediation cost may fall to you.

Given your description, the mold's location spreading from a wall adjacent to the bathroom strongly suggests a hidden plumbing leak or insufficient bathroom waterproofing—a clear structural issue. The musty odor that intensifies when the AC is off is a classic indicator of a serious, established colony. This is not a surface issue caused by simple condensation on a cold surface.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection immediately. A certified mold inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, perform a moisture mapping survey to locate the source, and provide a detailed remediation protocol. This evidence is crucial for determining liability between you and the landlord.

For a definitive diagnosis and to prevent health risks and property damage, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.