Who pays for mold removal in a rented home?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is generally determined by the cause of the mold. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structural integrity and ensure it is habitable. This includes addressing underlying issues that lead to mold growth, such as persistent water leaks from faulty plumbing, cracks in the building envelope, or inherent design flaws that cause condensation within walls.

However, tenant responsibilities are also clearly defined. If the mold growth is a direct result of tenant negligence—such as failing to use provided ventilation systems, causing excessive moisture through daily activities without proper exhaust, or failing to report a minor leak in a timely manner which then escalates—the financial responsibility for cleanup may fall on the tenant.

In your specific case, the location (back of a wardrobe) and the correlation with high humidity strongly suggest a condensation issue. In Dubai's climate, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on AC, this is a common problem often stemming from inadequate insulation or poor ventilation in built-in furniture against external walls, which is a structural issue. Your landlord's claim that it's due to improper ventilation may be an attempt to shift responsibility.

We strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and worsen the air quality, exacerbating your children's cough. A professional inspection is crucial to definitively identify the moisture source. Saniservice can provide a certified assessment and detailed report that outlines the exact cause, which is essential evidence in any discussion with your landlord. For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.