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

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for a year, and over the last few weeks, I've noticed a growing patch of black mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet. It seems to be spreading, and our clothes are starting to smell musty. Who is responsible for dealing with this, me as the tenant or my landlord, and what's the best way to approach them about it to get it fixed properly?
Posted by Jessica Brown
Asked on March 28, 2026 8:09 pm
In the UAE, specifically Dubai, responsibility for black mold remediation is typically determined by the cause, as outlined in standard tenancy contracts and the Dubai Rental Law. As a tenant in Jumeirah Village Circle, you are responsible for reporting the issue in writing to your landlord or property management company immediately. The landlord is generally obligated to address structural defects that cause the mold, such as leaking pipes in the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation.

However, tenant liability may come into play if the cause is determined to be a lack of ventilation. The extreme Dubai humidity and year-round AC use create a high risk of condensation, especially in enclosed spaces like closets. If clothes are stored while damp or the AC is set too high, causing the unit to short-cycle and not properly dehumidify, this can be seen as a tenant-induced moisture issue.

Given the visible growth and musty odor, this is a serious case requiring professional assessment. A certified mold inspector can conduct moisture mapping and air quality testing to definitively identify the source—whether it’s a hidden leak or an environmental humidity problem. This evidence is crucial for formally establishing responsibility with your landlord.

Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this will only temporarily remove the surface stain without addressing the root moisture problem or the underlying hyphal fragments. For a proper and lasting solution that protects your health and property, we recommend a professional assessment and remediation plan. Contact our specialists at Saniservice for a comprehensive inspection. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a survey.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 9:51 pm