Am I or my landlord responsible for black mold remediation?« Back to Previous Page

This is an excellent and very common question here in Dubai, especially with our recent humidity levels. The responsibility for mold remediation hinges on the source of the moisture, which is what a professional inspection is designed to determine.

Based on UAE rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property. This includes the building envelope, roof, and central AC system. If the mold on your exterior wall is due to a leaking pipe within the wall, a crack in the building's facade allowing water ingress, or a fault in the central air conditioning system's drainage, then the remediation and repair fall squarely on the landlord. You must notify them in writing immediately.

However, tenant responsibilities include ventilation and daily maintenance. If the mold is purely due to condensation from lack of air circulation in the closet (e.g., from storing damp clothes, not using AC/dehumidifiers), you might be asked to cover the cost of cleaning, though the landlord should still address any underlying insulation deficiency.

Crucially, wiping it with vinegar is a temporary fix for the surface growth and does nothing to address the hidden moisture source or the root structure of the mold, which is likely deep within the drywall or behind it. The recurring growth and musty odor are clear indicators of an active, underlying issue.

For a definitive answer on liability and a proper fix, you need a certified mold inspection. We use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact moisture source and provide a report that clearly outlines responsibility, which is essential for dealing with your landlord. For an assessment and quote, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.