Who pays for mold inspection in rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page
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We've been in our Jumeirah apartment for about a year, and ever since the humidity really kicked in a couple of months ago, there's been a persistent damp smell coming from the back of the bedroom closet. I finally pulled everything out and found a patch of black mold spreading on the wall behind the clothes. Who is responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection here, me or the landlord?
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In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold inspection and remediation in a rental property is typically determined by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended (the Dubai Rental Law). The general principle is that the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and the major systems of the property. This includes the building envelope, plumbing, and HVAC systems, which are common sources of moisture intrusion leading to mold.
However, the tenant is responsible for any damage caused by their own negligence or misuse. The key factor is establishing the source of the moisture. In your case, the location (an external wall closet) during a period of high humidity strongly suggests a condensation issue. Condensation is frequently caused by inadequate insulation in external walls (a structural issue) or an underperforming air conditioning system that fails to properly dehumidify the indoor air—both of which are the landlord's responsibility under the law. Given that the mold is already visible and spreading, a professional inspection is absolutely critical. A certified inspector, like those at Saniservice, will not only confirm the presence of mold but, more importantly, will conduct a moisture survey to identify the precise source of the water. This report is essential evidence to formally present to your landlord, as it definitively establishes liability. Your first step should be to formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue, with clear photographs. For a definitive assessment and a report that holds legal weight, we recommend engaging a professional. Contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection, including thermal imaging and moisture mapping, to identify the root cause and document the extent of the contamination. |
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