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

Based on Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, which regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants, the responsibility for maintenance is clearly delineated. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a condition that is habitable and to address structural defects. Mold resulting from inherent building issues, such as leaking pipes within the walls, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation that leads to condensation, falls under the landlord's responsibility.

However, the tenant is responsible for damages caused by misuse or negligence. If the mold is a direct result of the tenant's failure to use the ventilation systems properly—for instance, not running the AC to control the extreme humidity endemic to Dubai's climate—the cost could be argued to be the tenant's. Given that your closet shares a wall with the bathroom, the root cause is likely persistent moisture infiltration or condensation, which is a structural environmental control issue. Simply running the AC may not be sufficient if there is a hidden leak or a thermal bridge in the construction.

In such disputes, a professional, independent mold inspection is critical. The resulting report will definitively identify the moisture source and species of mold, which determines liability. For a case like yours in JVC, where humidity and condensation are common culprits, the landlord is typically responsible for remediation.

I strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxins and spread the contamination. For a definitive assessment and legally admissible report, you should engage a certified professional inspection company like Saniservice. They can provide the necessary documentation to present to your landlord and, if required, the Dubai Rental Dispute Center. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.