Am I liable for landlord's black mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, liability for mold remediation is typically determined by the source of the moisture. The black mold behind your wardrobe, exacerbated by the high ambient humidity and year-round AC use, is a common issue. The damp, cold wall suggests a potential building envelope failure, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, inadequate insulation leading to condensation (a chronic problem in Dubai's climate), or a structural defect allowing water ingress.

According to standard tenancy contract terms under Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues with the main building structure, plumbing within the walls, and external waterproofing. If the mold is a result of such a defect, the financial responsibility for the investigation and remediation falls on the landlord.

However, liability could shift to you, the tenant, if the moisture source is determined to be internal and due to tenant negligence, such as a failure to use the AC adequately to control humidity, improper ventilation, or damage to the property that allowed moisture in.

Given the scale you describe, a professional inspection is critical. We recommend contacting Saniservice for a comprehensive assessment. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to definitively identify the source of the moisture, which is essential for determining liability. This detailed report can then be used to discuss responsibility with your landlord from a position of fact. For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate spore dispersal and health risks.