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

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for two years and just noticed a bunch of black spots spreading from the corner of our bedroom ceiling. It's gotten worse since the humidity kicked in a few weeks ago. Who is responsible for getting a mold inspection done here, me as the tenant or is it the landlord's duty to handle and pay for it?
Posted by Ryo Hu
Asked on March 27, 2026 12:33 am
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold inspection and remediation is primarily governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. Typically, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues arising from building envelope failures, faulty construction, or inherent design flaws that lead to water intrusion and subsequent mold growth. If the black spots on your ceiling in Jumeirah are a result of a leaking pipe from an adjacent apartment, a compromised roof, or faulty external waterproofing, the financial responsibility for the inspection and remediation falls on the landlord.

However, the tenant is responsible for damages caused by their own negligence or misuse. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and year-round AC use are the norm, tenant responsibilities include maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent condensation and promptly reporting any signs of water leakage. If the mold is determined to be solely due to a tenant's failure to use the AC or exhaust fans, thereby creating excessive condensation, the cost liability could shift.

Given the visible spread from a ceiling corner, this strongly suggests an underlying moisture source, likely from a leak or condensation within the AC ductwork or from the building structure itself. We strongly recommend a professional inspection to identify the true moisture source. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to conduct a forensic-level assessment, which is crucial for accurately determining liability and the required scope of remediation.

For a definitive answer and to protect your health and interests, contact us for a comprehensive assessment. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 28, 2026 7:12 am