Is landlord responsible for black mold in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks and I suspect it's from the black mold that's been spreading along the ceiling in our master bedroom closet. We're in a rented apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle, and it's gotten much worse since the humidity spiked last month. Is this something I need to fix myself, or is the landlord legally responsible for handling the remediation?
Posted by Marco Petit
Asked on March 20, 2026 7:40 am
Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and the standard tenancy contract, the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. This includes addressing structural and maintenance issues that lead to health hazards, such as persistent black mold growth.

The mold you've described, likely Stachybotrys chartarum, is a serious concern, especially with the reported health symptoms in children. Its proliferation along the ceiling is a strong indicator of a chronic moisture issue. In Jumeirah Village Circle, this is frequently caused by a combination of our extreme humidity and inadequate ventilation, often exacerbated by air conditioning systems that are not properly balanced or maintained, leading to condensation within wall and ceiling cavities.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and including photographs. They are responsible for investigating and rectifying the source of the moisture intrusion and for the subsequent mold remediation. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic mycotoxins, significantly worsening air quality and health risks.

A professional inspection is absolutely critical here. We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the water intrusion (e.g., leaking AC drain line, roof leak, thermal bridging causing condensation) and conduct air quality testing to identify the spore types and concentration levels. This scientific evidence is vital for ensuring the landlord addresses the root cause, not just the visible growth.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your family's safety, I strongly recommend contacting our specialists. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection and receive a detailed report for your landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 22, 2026 1:59 am