Who pays for mold removal as a tenant in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold removal in a rental property typically depends on the source of the moisture. Under Dubai's rental laws, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. If the mold is due to a structural issue like a leaking pipe, a crack in the external wall allowing condensation, or a faulty AC unit that is part of the property, the landlord is obligated to address the cause and the resulting damage.

However, if the moisture source is determined to be tenant-related—such as inadequate ventilation, drying clothes indoors, or blocking AC vents with furniture—the responsibility for remediation may fall to the tenant. The mold behind your wardrobe in a high-humidity climate like Dubai's is a common issue; it often points to condensation caused by poor air circulation. Moving the wardrobe slightly away from the wall can help, but the spreading patch suggests a persistent problem.

For a definitive answer, a professional inspection is needed to identify the exact moisture source. Document the issue with photos and formally notify your landlord or property management company. They will often send a maintenance team to assess. If the cause is structural, request they hire a certified mold remediation provider to ensure it's properly addressed, not just painted over. In many tenancy disputes, providing a lab report from an independent inspector can clarify liability.