Is landlord responsible for apartment's black mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The corner behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom in Jumeirah has developed a patch of black, fuzzy mold that seems to be spreading. Our apartment feels really humid even with the AC on, and I'm worried it's from a leak in the wall that we didn't cause. As tenants, are we responsible for cleaning this up and fixing the cause, or is this something the landlord needs to handle immediately?
Posted by Hendrik Fernandez
Asked on March 15, 2026 12:23 pm
Based on the details you've provided, specifically the location behind the wardrobe and the persistent high humidity, this is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. In Dubai's climate, where high external humidity forces us to rely on year-round AC, such conditions are a major red flag. The black, fuzzy growth you describe is highly indicative of a Stachybotrys chartarum infestation, commonly referred to as toxic black mold, which thrives on constant moisture from a sustained water source.

Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the responsibility for the structural integrity of the property lies with the landlord. This includes addressing the root cause of the mold, which is almost certainly a hidden plumbing leak within the wall or a breach in the building envelope allowing moisture ingress. The landlord is legally obligated to rectify this source of moisture. As the tenant, your responsibility is typically limited to reporting the issue in writing promptly and allowing reasonable access for inspection and repairs.

However, the mold remediation itself is a separate and highly technical process. Simply wiping it away is ineffective and hazardous, as it disturbs toxic spores. Proper remediation requires containment, professional-grade antimicrobial agents, and HEPA filtration to ensure the spores are not spread throughout your apartment.

Given the potential health risks and the likelihood of a concealed leak, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. We strongly recommend you contact your landlord immediately in writing, detailing the problem. For a definitive assessment of the moisture source and a certified remediation plan, you should engage a specialist. Our team at Saniservice can perform a comprehensive inspection using moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint the exact leak and provide a formal report for your landlord, along with a scope for safe, guaranteed remediation.

For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 17, 2026 8:45 pm