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

Excellent question, and a very common point of contention between tenants and landlords here in Dubai. I see this exact scenario frequently in JVC apartments.

The short answer is: it depends entirely on the source of the moisture causing the mold.

Under UAE law, specifically the Dubai Rental Law, the responsibility falls on the party responsible for the defect. Here’s the breakdown:

Landlord's Responsibility: If the mold is a result of a structural or maintenance-related issue with the property itself, the landlord is 100% responsible for the cost of remediation. This includes problems like a leaking central AC system, faulty plumbing within the walls, a leaking roof, or inadequate waterproofing/sealant on the exterior. The dampness you feel behind the wardrobe strongly suggests a hidden leak or condensation from an AC pipe, which is a building issue.

Tenant's Responsibility: The tenant is financially responsible if the mold is a direct result of their negligence or lifestyle. This means failing to use the AC properly to control humidity (a must in Dubai), not reporting a minor leak in a timely manner, causing water damage through an overflow, or poor ventilation leading to excessive condensation.

Given your description—the mold is behind large furniture, feels damp, and you've just discovered it—this leans heavily towards a latent building issue. The landlord is likely responsible. However, you MUST get a professional inspection to determine the root cause. A certified mold assessor will use moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and air quality tests to pinpoint the exact source of the water intrusion. This report is your evidence and is crucial for discussions with your landlord or the Dubai Rental Dispute Center.

Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize spores and worsen your family's health symptoms, like that coughing.

My strong recommendation is to immediately inform your landlord in writing and request a professional mold inspection. For an accurate assessment and a definitive report you can use, call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can identify the cause and provide a clear path for resolution.