Who is responsible for black mold: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically determined by the root cause of the moisture, as outlined in Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (Amended by Law No. 33 of 2008) and the standard tenancy contract.

As a certified mold inspector, the location you describe—a closet corner, likely an exterior wall—is a classic indicator of a building envelope or condensation issue, not tenant negligence. The recent high humidity has simply exacerbated the existing condition. The landlord is generally responsible for rectifying structural defects, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation that lead to persistent dampness and mold growth. This includes the cost of professional remediation to address the root cause, not just superficial cleaning.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining adequate ventilation (e.g., running AC consistently to manage humidity, not blocking air vents) and reporting issues promptly. Your two-year occupancy weakens any claim that this is purely due to your lifestyle, as latent construction defects often manifest over time.

Given the potential health risks and structural implications of black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), we strongly advise against DIY cleaning. Improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores throughout the apartment. A professional inspection is critical to identify the precise moisture source via thermal imaging and hygrometer readings, assess the contamination level, and produce a report that definitively allocates responsibility between you and the landlord.

For a comprehensive assessment and certified remediation report to present to your landlord, we recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Our team is expert in resolving such disputes with factual, evidence-based findings.