Is black mold in my Dubai apartment the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

The presence of black mold in your Jumeirah Village Circle apartment is a serious issue that stems from excess moisture, a common problem in Dubai's humid climate exacerbated by year-round AC use leading to condensation. From a technical standpoint, the responsibility for remediation hinges on the source of the moisture.

Under UAE rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property and for carrying out maintenance that ensures the property is habitable. This includes addressing leaks from internal plumbing, external water seepage, or faulty AC drainage systems that cause chronic dampness. If the mold growth is a result of such a structural or maintenance issue, the landlord is unequivocally responsible for the repairs and the subsequent remediation.

However, if the humidity is determined to be primarily due to tenant lifestyle factors (e.g., inadequate ventilation, drying clothes indoors) and there is no underlying structural defect, the tenant may be liable for the cleaning costs. The patch behind your boxes suggests a localized humidity pocket, but a professional inspection is critical to determine the exact cause.

Do not attempt to clean significant black mold growth yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize toxic spores. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord/property management in writing with photos, requesting an immediate professional assessment. For a certified inspection and a detailed report that outlines the cause and scope of contamination—which is essential for determining liability—I strongly recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. We can provide the technical evidence needed and perform the necessary hygienization. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an urgent consultation.