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

As a certified mold remediation specialist operating in Dubai, this is a common yet serious question we encounter, especially in high-humidity coastal areas like the Marina. The responsibility for mold removal cost is dictated by the root cause of the moisture, as outlined in standard tenancy contract provisions and Dubai rental law.

If the mold is a result of a structural or maintenance issue with the property—such as a leaking pipe inside the wall, faulty external waterproofing, or a defect in the building's AC system that causes excessive condensation—then the financial responsibility falls squarely on the landlord. The damp wall behind a fixed fixture like a wardrobe strongly suggests a hidden leak or penetrating damp, which is a building integrity issue.

However, if the moisture is due to tenant lifestyle factors—like inadequate ventilation, drying clothes indoors, or significantly lowering the AC temperature, which leads to excessive condensation—the tenant may be liable for the remediation costs.

Given that your children are experiencing respiratory symptoms, this is a serious health concern that requires immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to remove significant black mold yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxins and exacerbate the problem. The first step is a professional inspection and moisture mapping to definitively identify the source. We use thermal imaging and borescopes to pinpoint leaks without destructive investigation.

I strongly recommend you contact your landlord immediately, inform them of the suspected structural dampness and health impact, and request a professional assessment. For a certified inspection and a detailed report that can be presented to your landlord, you can call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can determine the cause and provide a remediation plan in full compliance with Dubai Municipality guidelines.