Who is responsible for mold in my rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily dictated by the tenancy contract and the nature of the issue. The general principle under Dubai rental law is that the landlord is responsible for the property's structural integrity and the maintenance of major building systems. As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition.

Given your description of black, fuzzy patches on the ceiling in Jumeirah, the cause is likely linked to a building system failure—specifically, a fault in the AC drainage. The persistent high humidity and condensation issues common in Dubai's climate can rapidly accelerate mold growth when an AC unit is not dehumidifying and draining correctly. This type of problem, stemming from the HVAC system, is typically the landlord's responsibility to investigate and rectify. Your responsibility as the tenant would be to report the issue promptly, which you have done.

However, "black mold" is a serious concern. Stachybotrys chartarum, often referred to as toxic black mold, requires professional handling. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can release harmful mycotoxins into the air. The first step is a professional mold inspection and air quality test to identify the species and the root moisture source. This provides the evidence needed to formally request remediation from your landlord.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your family's safety, I strongly recommend you contact a certified professional. Our team at Saniservice specializes in mold inspection, testing, and remediation specific to Dubai's climate and building standards. We can provide a detailed report for your landlord.

Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.