Who pays for black mold removal in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing for the past few weeks and I’m starting to suspect it's from black mold growing behind our bedroom curtains in Discovery Gardens. We noticed it after that really humid spell last month, and our landlord is saying it’s our fault for not ventilating properly. Who is legally responsible for the inspection and remediation costs in a rental situation like this?
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In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the legal responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically governed by the rental contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Law Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai'. The core principle is that the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. This includes addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking central AC systems, or structural cracks that allow moisture ingress.
However, the tenant is responsible for damages resulting from negligence or misuse. In your case in Discovery Gardens, the landlord's argument about improper ventilation is a common one, given Dubai's extreme humidity and the condensation that forms on cold surfaces when AC is running. While tenants are expected to ventilate properties to mitigate this, the persistent growth of black mold often points to a more significant underlying moisture issue that is the landlord's responsibility to investigate and rectify. For a definitive determination, a professional inspection is critical. Our certified mold assessors can identify the precise moisture source and type of mold, creating a report that delineates responsibility. This evidence is vital for discussions with your landlord or, if necessary, for filing a case with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC). Do not attempt to remove significant black mold yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize toxic spores and exacerbate health issues. For a professional assessment and a legally defensible report, I strongly recommend you contact our team. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. |
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