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

In the UAE, the responsibility and cost allocation for mold remediation is primarily governed by the tenancy contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The general principle dictates that structural repairs and issues arising from the building's inherent condition are the landlord's responsibility. This includes problems like water seepage from external walls, faulty AC ducting within the building's structure, or inherent waterproofing failures. Conversely, repairs arising from the tenant's misuse or negligence, such as failing to use the AC appropriately leading to excessive humidity, are the tenant's responsibility.

Your situation in Jumeirah Village Circle is a common scenario in Dubai's climate. The combination of high ambient humidity and year-round AC use creates significant condensation risks. The higher DEWA bill strongly suggests the AC unit is struggling to manage humidity levels, likely due to a compromised seal, undersized unit, or clogged drain pan, causing excess moisture to accumulate behind the wardrobe—a classic spot for mold growth due to poor air circulation. An inspection is critical to determine the moisture source. If the origin is a leaking pipe within the wall or faulty external sealing, it is the landlord's obligation. If the cause is a tenant-maintained AC unit not being set correctly or its filters not being cleaned, the tenant may be liable.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection to definitively identify the moisture source and extent of contamination. DIY attempts often spread spores and miss the root cause. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the issue and provide a legally defensible report for your landlord. For immediate assistance, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive assessment and protect your health and property.