Who pays for black mold removal, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the conditions you've described in Al Barsha, this is a significant indoor air quality issue that requires immediate professional attention. The persistent high humidity, coupled with condensation from year-round AC use, creates the perfect environment for toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) to proliferate, especially in enclosed spaces like closets.

Under UAE rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007 and its amendments, the responsibility for maintenance falls into two categories. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing the root cause of the mold, which is almost certainly a building envelope issue such as inadequate insulation in an exterior wall (a common problem that leads to condensation), hidden water ingress, or a faulty AC system causing excessive moisture. The tenant is typically responsible for day-to-day minor maintenance and any damage they directly cause. However, given the scale of the spread and its impact on health (coughing in children is a serious indicator) and belongings, this is a structural moisture issue.

You must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, detailing the problem and including photographs. We strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper remediation can aerosolize the toxic spores, worsening the air quality and health risks. The remediation process requires professional containment, HEPA filtration, and antimicrobial treatment to ensure it is eradicated safely.

For a definitive assessment and to establish liability, a certified mold inspection is crucial. Our teams use thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint the exact moisture source and air sampling to quantify spore levels. This professional report is often necessary to formally resolve responsibility with the landlord.

For immediate assistance with inspection and remediation, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Saniservice is equipped to handle this from diagnosis to certified clearance, ensuring your family's health is protected.