Who is responsible for black mold in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai's rental properties, the responsibility for black mold remediation is primarily determined by the cause of the moisture, as outlined in standard tenancy contracts and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai).

Generally, the landlord is responsible for addressing structural issues that lead to mold growth. This includes problems like inherent building defects, leaking pipes within the walls, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate external sealing that allows water ingress. These are considered maintenance issues pertaining to the property itself.

However, tenant liability arises if the mold is a direct result of their actions or negligence. In Dubai's humid climate, this most commonly occurs from lifestyle habits that generate excess moisture without adequate ventilation. Examples include overfilling closets (restricting airflow), drying clothes indoors, failing to use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, or setting the AC at a high temperature and turning it off for extended periods, leading to condensation. The tenant is responsible for maintaining a reasonable indoor environment to prevent such issues.

Given your description—location in a closet, recent humidity, and rapid spread—the cause could be either. A professional inspection is crucial to determine the source. Our certified mold inspectors use tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify the exact origin of the water, which dictates responsibility. Attempting removal without this assessment can exacerbate the problem and health risks, particularly from mycotoxins.

For a definitive assessment and remediation quote, we strongly recommend you contact our specialists. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.