Is my landlord responsible for black mold in my apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, landlord-tenant responsibility for mold is dictated by Law No. (26) of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The responsibility for remedying the black mold behind your sofa hinges on the root cause.

The landlord is unequivocally responsible for the structural integrity of the property. If the mold growth is a result of a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, a faulty sealant on the external façade allowing water ingress, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation within the wall cavity, then the remediation cost falls on them. Given your description of the mold appearing after heavy fog and potentially being linked to a leak, this strongly suggests an underlying structural or moisture intrusion issue. You must formally notify your landlord in writing of the problem immediately, as delays can exacerbate the damage and potential health risks.

However, tenant responsibility applies if the mold is solely due to occupant behavior, such as a failure to adequately ventilate the property or reporting a minor internal leak that was then neglected. Dubai's climate, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning, creates perfect conditions for condensation and mold if AC units are not properly maintained or if ventilation is insufficient.

Given the pattern of growth you describe, a professional inspection is critical. Our certified mold inspectors at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and thermal imaging, to identify the exact source of the moisture. This evidence-based report is essential for determining liability and ensuring the correct, permanent remediation solution is applied. For an immediate assessment, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.