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

We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed a large patch of black mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet. It's on the wall and seems to be spreading, probably from the recent humidity. We’re renting an apartment in Jumeirah Lakes Towers and I’m not sure if this is something I should handle myself or if I need to get the building management or landlord involved. Who is legally responsible for the cost of professional mold removal in a rental?
Posted by Julia Lewandowski
Asked on March 28, 2026 5:23 am
In Dubai's rental market, the responsibility for mold removal is primarily dictated by the tenancy contract and the nature of the issue. Under standard RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) regulations, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property and for rectifying any issues arising from inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes within the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or a compromised building envelope that allows water ingress. These are the most common causes of the type of persistent mold growth you're describing in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, where high humidity and year-round AC use can lead to significant condensation problems if the building's ventilation and insulation are not optimal.

However, if the mold is a direct result of tenant negligence—such as failing to use the AC to control humidity, not ventilating the property properly, or causing a water spill that wasn't dried—the cost of remediation may fall to the tenant.

Given the situation you've described—a large, spreading patch in a closet—this strongly indicates a hidden moisture source. This is not a surface issue for bleach or DIY solutions. The first actionable step is to formally notify your landlord and building management in writing, with photos, to establish the issue. They should arrange for a professional inspection to determine the root cause. A certified mold inspector will conduct moisture mapping and air quality testing to identify the source and extent of contamination, which is critical for assigning responsibility and planning the correct remediation protocol.

For a definitive diagnosis and a legally compliant remediation report, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive assessment. Our detailed report will be essential evidence for your landlord, ensuring the problem is resolved correctly and permanently.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 7:32 pm