Who is responsible for mold remediation, tenant or owner?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold that's started growing along the base of the wall in their bedroom. We've lived here in Jumeirah for 2 years and just noticed it spreading since the humidity spiked a couple of weeks ago. The landlord is saying it's our fault for not ventilating properly, but the windows are always open. Who is actually responsible for the cost of mold remediation in a rental, the tenant or the owner?
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In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily determined by the cause of the moisture intrusion, as outlined in Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, commonly known as the 'Rental Law'.
The landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues like leaking pipes, cracks in the exterior walls, or faulty waterproofing that allow moisture to infiltrate, creating the conditions for mold growth you're describing along the baseboard. However, the tenant is typically responsible for damage resulting from negligence or failure to maintain the property in a habitable condition. The landlord's argument about improper ventilation is a common one, given Dubai's extreme humidity and the condensation that forms on cold walls behind furniture or in poorly circulated rooms, even with windows open. Year-round AC usage is essential not just for cooling, but for dehumidification. Your situation—recent spread coinciding with a humidity spike—suggests an environmental cause. However, to definitively determine liability and the appropriate remediation protocol, a professional inspection is critical. Our certified inspectors conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the precise moisture source and type of mold, which provides an evidence-based report that can be used to resolve disputes with the landlord. For a definitive answer and to protect your family's health, I strongly recommend a professional evaluation. Contact our team at Saniservice for a thorough inspection. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment. |
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