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

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet, behind some boxes. It must have been growing slowly for a while. The AC is always on, but that wall feels a bit damp to the touch. Who is responsible for arranging and paying for the mold inspection and remediation, me as the tenant or my landlord?
Posted by Emily Davis
Asked on March 20, 2026 9:18 pm
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold removal is primarily determined by the tenancy contract and the cause of the infestation, as per the Dubai Rental Law. Generally, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property and resolving issues related to inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes within the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or poor insulation leading to condensation. As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and hygienic condition and for issues arising from your own negligence or actions, such as inadequate ventilation or failing to report a water leak in a timely manner.

Given your description of a damp internal wall with the AC constantly running, the cause is likely persistent condensation due to the high humidity of the Dubai climate interacting with a potential cold bridge in the building's structure. This is a common issue here. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photographs. They are typically obligated to arrange and pay for a professional inspection to determine the root cause.

A proper inspection by a certified company like Saniservice is critical. We use thermal imaging cameras to identify moisture pockets and cold spots, hygrometers to measure relative humidity, and take air and surface samples to identify the mold species. This technical report will definitively establish liability. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores throughout your apartment.

For a professional assessment and a clear determination of responsibility, I recommend you contact our specialists. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 22, 2026 5:44 am