Who pays for mold inspection, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility and associated costs for a mold inspection are typically governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The general principle places maintenance and repair obligations on the landlord to ensure the property is habitable. This includes addressing fundamental structural issues, plumbing leaks, or faulty AC systems that are the underlying cause of the mold growth you've described behind your sofa.

However, the responsibility can shift to the tenant if the damage is proven to be a result of negligence, such as failure to use the AC appropriately to control humidity, not reporting water leaks promptly, or improper ventilation leading to excessive condensation. The recent humid conditions in Dubai exacerbate these issues, as our climate creates a perfect environment for mold when combined with cold surfaces from continuous AC operation.

Given the symptoms you report—visible growth, a persistent musty odor, and health effects—this is a serious case requiring immediate professional assessment. A DIY inspection is insufficient as it will not identify the moisture source or the spore types present. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, as this starts the legal clock for them to respond.

For a definitive assessment, I strongly recommend a certified mold inspection from a company like Saniservice. Our experts use thermal imaging, moisture meters, and air/surface sampling to identify the species and extent of contamination, which is crucial for determining liability and the correct remediation protocol. Do not disturb the area before testing.

For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 to schedule a comprehensive inspection.