Who is responsible for mold removal in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's because of the black mold that's been growing on the ceiling of our master bedroom closet. It started spreading after that really humid spell we had a couple of weeks ago. I'm in a rented apartment in Jumeirah and I'm not sure if this is something I need to fix myself or if the landlord is responsible for getting it professionally cleaned. Who is legally responsible for mold remediation in a rental here?
Posted by Vikram Dubey
Asked on March 15, 2026 9:28 am
In Dubai's rental properties, responsibility for mold remediation is primarily dictated by the terms of your tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai Law'. Generally, the landlord is responsible for the property's structural integrity and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes within the walls or faulty external waterproofing that leads to moisture intrusion. If the black mold in your closet is a result of a pre-existing condensation issue from poor insulation or a hidden leak, the remediation cost typically falls on the landlord.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining the property's cleanliness and ensuring adequate ventilation. Given Dubai's high humidity levels and the necessity of year-round AC use, failure to properly ventilate bathrooms, run AC units to control humidity, or promptly report water leaks can shift liability to the tenant. The mold growth following a humid spell suggests an environmental control issue, but the persistent growth on the ceiling may indicate a deeper problem.

Due to the potential health impacts on your children and the legal nuances, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. Our certified mold inspectors can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and, crucially, use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the moisture—whether it's condensation, an active leak, or capillary rise. This detailed report is essential evidence to determine liability and outline the necessary remediation protocol. For a definitive assessment and to protect your family's health, please contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 16, 2026 9:46 am