Is the landlord responsible for black mold removal?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking on and off for a couple of months, and now I’ve found a huge patch of black mold on the back wall and on some of our stored luggage. I’ve told my landlord’s agent about the leak before, but they were slow to fix it. Now with this mold, who is responsible for the professional removal and cleaning – is it me as the tenant or is the building management/owner obligated to handle and pay for it?
Posted by Antonio Kowalski
Asked on March 27, 2026 11:38 pm
In the UAE, specifically under Dubai's rental laws, the landlord is unequivocally responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property, which includes the central air conditioning system and any resultant damage from its failure. The recurring AC leak you described is a clear maintenance issue that the landlord's agent was notified about. The resulting black mold growth is a direct consequence of this unresolved leak.

Under the Dubai Rental Law, a tenant is responsible for damages caused by their own misuse, but damages from structural flaws or appliance failure fall to the landlord. The presence of extensive mold, especially from a known and reported water source, places the obligation for professional remediation squarely on the property owner. This includes the inspection, testing, and removal of the mold colony, as well as the repair of the AC unit to prevent recurrence.

Given Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use, mold can proliferate rapidly and pose significant health risks. A patch of this size indicates a serious, established problem that requires immediate professional attention. DIY cleaning is not advised, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores and spread contamination.

We strongly recommend you formally notify the landlord in writing, with photos, and demand immediate professional remediation. For a certified inspection and a comprehensive remediation protocol to present to your landlord, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to document the issue correctly and ensure it is addressed to Dubai Municipality standards.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 7:59 pm