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

In Dubai and the UAE, the responsibility for rectifying black mold in a rental property is generally determined by the cause, as outlined in the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended). The landlord is responsible for the property's structural integrity and maintaining the building's central air conditioning systems. If the mold growth on your interior wall is a result of a structural defect, such as a hidden water leak from plumbing within the walls or a faulty AC unit that is part of the building's infrastructure, the remediation cost falls on the landlord.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining adequate ventilation to manage the high humidity levels inherent to our coastal climate. If the mold is determined to be a direct result of tenant activities—such as insufficient use of air conditioning, blocking ventilation grilles, or improper storage that restricts airflow—you may be held liable for the remediation costs. The recent humidity spike is a significant factor; year-round AC is not just for comfort but is essential for moisture control. Condensation forming on cold interior walls, especially within closets, is a primary catalyst for Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) growth.

Given the potential health risks and the complexity of determining the root cause, a professional inspection is critical. We at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the moisture source, perform precise air and surface sampling to confirm the mold type and concentration, and provide a detailed report. This report is vital evidence to determine liability with your landlord. For immediate advice and to schedule a certified inspection, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not attempt remediation yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxins and exacerbate the problem.