Is landlord responsible for black mold in Jumeirah apartment?« Back to Previous Page

We’ve lived in our Jumeirah apartment for two years, and just noticed a patch of black mold spreading on the ceiling in the master bedroom closet. It’s been getting worse since the humidity spiked a few weeks ago, and I'm worried about our health. Is this something I need to fix myself, or is the landlord responsible for the inspection and cleanup?
Posted by Huda Al-Hassan
Asked on March 13, 2026 8:57 pm
Based on UAE Civil Code and the standard rental contract (Ejari), the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structural integrity and ensure it is habitable. This includes addressing issues like mold that arise from inherent building defects, such as persistent water leaks, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation systems that are part of the property's infrastructure.

However, the responsibility can shift to the tenant if the mold growth is a direct result of tenant negligence. Examples include failing to use provided exhaust fans, blocking AC vents, or causing water damage that wasn't reported and mitigated promptly. Since you mentioned the issue coincides with a spike in humidity, the root cause is critical. In a high-humidity climate like Dubai, the property's AC and ventilation systems must be functioning correctly to manage moisture levels.

For a confirmed black mold case in Jumeirah, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. DIY cleaning on porous surfaces like ceiling drywall is often ineffective and can aerosolize spores, worsening contamination. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and, crucially, use tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact moisture source. This report is vital evidence for determining liability between you and the landlord.

Do not attempt remediation yourself. For a definitive assessment and to understand your rights, you need an expert evaluation. Call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection. We'll provide the documentation needed to resolve the issue with your landlord responsibly.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 16, 2026 5:38 pm