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

In the context of mold removal within rental properties in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, the responsibility for remediation can be complex and is often determined by local laws and the terms of your lease agreement. The Emirate of Dubai has specific regulations regarding tenant rights and responsibilities, which can offer some guidance on who should bear the cost.

Firstly, it's important to understand that if mold growth is due to a structural issue or failure in maintenance that is within the landlord’s responsibility (such as leaking pipes or inadequate ventilation), then the landlord would be expected to cover the costs of remediation. However, for issues caused by tenant negligence—like leaving water on the floor after showering and not drying it properly—the tenant might be responsible.

Given your situation where mold has been noticed in a less frequented area of your bedroom closet after heavy rains, you should consider whether this issue is due to a structural problem or if the moisture was retained because of poor maintenance by yourself. In either case, consulting with an environmental inspector or a professional hygienization service provider would be prudent.

Saniservice.com, for instance, offers comprehensive mold inspection and remediation services in the UAE. Their team can assess whether the mold growth is due to structural issues that require landlord intervention or if it's a result of improper moisture management that you might need to address.

If you decide to proceed with a professional service, calling 800-MOLDS (or 800-66537) could connect you directly to a reputable company. Remember, under the UAE Civil Code and specifically in Dubai, tenants have the right to demand repairs for any structural issues that affect health or safety, including mold.

It's also advisable to document your findings, take photos of the mold growth, and inform your landlord about it. Keep records of all communications regarding this issue. If there is a dispute over who should cover the costs, you might need to refer to the terms of your lease agreement or seek legal advice from a local lawyer.

In summary, while some mold issues may fall under tenant responsibilities, others are clearly within the realm of landlord obligations. Engaging professional services for an inspection can provide clarity and ensure proper remediation according to UAE regulations.