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

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for all major maintenance and repairs related to the structure of the property, including the building's envelope, plumbing, and AC systems that lead to issues like mold growth. Your obligation as a tenant is typically limited to reporting the issue in a timely manner for the landlord to address it.

Given that the mold is on the ceiling and has appeared during a period of high humidity, the root cause is highly likely to be a structural issue, such as a hidden leak from the roof or a neighboring apartment, or a failure in the AC drainage system. Since you've been there a year and just noticed it, it's unlikely to be considered negligent delay in reporting.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) about the problem, stating it is a structural issue affecting the habitability of the unit. It is strongly advised to get a professional inspection first. A certified mold assessor can identify the exact species and, more importantly, the precise moisture source. This technical report is your strongest evidence in any dispute, proving the origin is not from tenant activities.

If the landlord continues to refuse, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai. For a definitive assessment and detailed report, I recommend calling our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com. Don't attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate the problem and health risks.