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

This is an excellent and very common question for residents in Dubai, especially in high-humidity areas like Jumeirah Village Triangle. The responsibility for mold remediation costs hinges on the source of the moisture causing the mold growth.

Under standard UAE tenancy contract terms and the general principle of 'habitability', the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. If the mold is a result of a structural issue—such as a leaking pipe within the walls, faulty air conditioning ductwork causing condensation, water seepage from the external facade, or a leak from an adjacent apartment—the financial responsibility for both the repair of the leak and the subsequent mold remediation falls squarely on the landlord.

However, the tenant is typically responsible if the mold is due to their own actions or negligence. This includes lack of adequate ventilation (e.g., not using bathroom extractor fans, keeping windows permanently closed), interior leaks from appliances they installed, or failure to report a minor leak in a timely manner which then allowed mold to proliferate.

Given that you've found it behind a wardrobe—a classic spot for condensation due to poor air circulation—and it coincides with the humid season, the cause could be complex. A professional inspection is absolutely critical here to determine the moisture source. We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact cause, which then dictates liability. Do not attempt to remove significant black mold yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize harmful mycotoxins and worsen your family's respiratory symptoms.

For a definitive assessment and to protect your family's health, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. We can provide a detailed report for your landlord outlining the cause and required remediation steps.