Who pays for mold removal: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's because of the black mold I just found behind our bedroom wardrobe. We've lived in this Discovery Gardens apartment for 2 years and just noticed it, but it looks like it's been there a while. With the humidity lately, it seems to be getting worse. Who is responsible for the cost of professional mold removal here, me as the tenant or my landlord?
Posted by Takeshi Zhao
Asked on March 13, 2026 3:57 am
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the tenancy contract and the underlying cause of the mold growth. As per standard Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for rectifying issues related to the building's structural integrity or inherent defects, such as leaking pipes, faulty external waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation systems that lead to condensation. The tenant is generally responsible for damages resulting from their own negligence or failure to maintain the property appropriately, such as not using the AC, failing to report a leak in a timely manner, or creating excessive indoor humidity.

Given your description of the black mold behind the wardrobe in Discovery Gardens, this is a complex scenario. The location suggests a potential cold bridge or condensation issue within the wall, which is a structural concern falling under the landlord's purview. However, the persistent high humidity, a well-known challenge in Dubai, requires tenants to actively manage their indoor environment through consistent AC use and dehumidification.

The health symptoms you describe underscore the urgency. Professional inspection is critical to identify the exact moisture source and mold species. We strongly advise against disturbing it yourself, as this can aerosolize toxic spores and exacerbate your children's respiratory issues.

Our standard protocol involves a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to produce a definitive report on the cause. This report is often essential for mediating with your landlord or building management. For immediate assistance and to schedule a professional inspection, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our experts can provide the documentation needed to clarify responsibility and execute a complete, safe remediation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 15, 2026 1:42 pm