Who pays for mold inspection in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai's rental market, the responsibility for mold inspection costs is primarily dictated by the cause of the infestation, as outlined in Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structural integrity and ensure it is habitable at the commencement of the tenancy. If the mold originates from a structural defect, such as a hidden water leak from a faulty pipe within the wall, a leaking AC condensation drain line inside the duct, or seepage from the building envelope, the landlord is unequivocally responsible for the inspection and subsequent remediation costs.

However, the tenant is responsible for damages resulting from negligence or misuse. In your case, the landlord's claim of improper ventilation is a common counterargument. While you run the AC constantly, it is the correct use of the AC that is critical. In Dubai's humid climate, AC units must be set to a sufficiently low temperature to effectively remove humidity from the air; simply running the fan is insufficient and can exacerbate condensation. Furthermore, furniture placed directly against exterior walls can create cold spots and trap moisture, leading to condensation and mold growth, which can be deemed tenant-related.

Given that the mold is spreading from behind a wardrobe on an exterior wall, the root cause is not immediately clear and requires professional forensic investigation. A certified mold inspection by a company like Saniservice is essential. Our process involves using thermal imaging cameras to identify temperature differentials and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of water intrusion. Air and surface sampling will then identify the mold species and concentration. This detailed, technical report is the only way to definitively determine liability.

For a conclusive assessment to present to your landlord, we strongly recommend you call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.