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

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for two years and just noticed a spreading patch of black mold in the corner of the master bedroom closet, right on the wall. It definitely got worse after the heavy humidity last month. My husband thinks we have to pay for the cleanup ourselves, but I feel like the building management or landlord should handle something like this. Who is legally responsible for fixing a mold problem like this in a rental?
Posted by Gary Williams
Asked on March 18, 2026 2:34 pm
In Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily dictated by the reason for the moisture intrusion, as outlined in the Dubai Rental Law. The humid climate and year-round reliance on AC creates a high risk for condensation, which often leads to mold growth in poorly ventilated areas like closets.

If the mold is a result of a structural issue, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, a crack in the building envelope, or faulty waterproofing from an adjacent bathroom, the responsibility falls on the landlord or building management to rectify the underlying defect. They are obligated to provide a habitable property. However, if the moisture issue is due to tenant behavior—such as insufficient use of air conditioning, blocking AC vents, failing to use bathroom extractor fans, or drying clothes indoors—the tenant is typically responsible for the resulting damage and cleanup.

Given your description of its location and progression after a period of high humidity, a professional inspection is critical to determine the exact cause. Our certified mold inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify hidden leaks and measure humidity levels, providing a definitive report on the source. This evidence is essential for formally addressing the issue with your landlord or building management.

For a confirmed case of black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), professional remediation by a company like Saniservice is strongly advised. We follow strict protocols for containment, removal, and antimicrobial treatment to ensure it is resolved safely and completely. Do not attempt to clean significant growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize harmful spores.

For immediate consultation and inspection to determine liability and resolve the issue, call our experts at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 20, 2026 8:14 pm