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

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village apartment for two years, but just noticed a spreading patch of black mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet, which is on the wall facing the outside. It’s gotten much worse since the heavy dew we had last week. Is this something I need to handle myself, or is my landlord responsible for the inspection and cleanup?
Posted by Barbara Moore
Asked on March 19, 2026 5:09 am
In the UAE, particularly in high-humidity climates like Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation often depends on the source of the moisture. Your description of the mold on an external wall worsening after heavy dew strongly suggests an underlying moisture intrusion issue, such as a leaking sealant, cracked external render, or a breach in the building envelope. Under Dubai's rental laws (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing external leaks and the resultant damage, such as mold growth caused by that moisture.

However, it is critical to first determine the exact cause. The persistent use of air conditioning can also lead to condensation issues if units are undersized or not properly maintained, which can sometimes blur the lines of responsibility. We strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself. Disturbing the mold without proper containment can aerosolize spores and contaminate other areas of your apartment. A professional inspection is necessary to identify the moisture source, assess the extent of the infestation, and determine liability.

Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging, moisture meters, and air quality tests to provide a definitive report on the cause and scope, which is essential for discussions with your landlord. For a thorough assessment and to ensure your family's health, we recommend you contact us for a professional evaluation. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 22, 2026 3:53 am