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

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. It’s a large patch that must have been growing for a while, and our apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle always feels a bit humid. Who is responsible for arranging and paying for the proper removal, me as the tenant or the building management/landlord?
Posted by Patricia Robinson
Asked on April 3, 2026 11:17 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) and standard tenancy contract regulations, the responsibility for mold removal is typically determined by the source of the moisture.

As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the interior of the property and reporting issues promptly. However, the landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable dwelling and is responsible for the structural integrity of the building. If the mold growth in your Jumeirah Village Circle apartment is a result of a structural issue—such as a leaking pipe within the walls, faulty waterproofing on the external facade, or inadequate ventilation systems that are part of the building's design—then the landlord or building management is financially responsible for the investigation and remediation.

Given that you've discovered a large patch behind the wardrobe, this strongly suggests a hidden, persistent moisture source. The high humidity common in Dubai, compounded by year-round AC use which can create significant condensation if systems are not properly balanced, often exacerbates these issues. A professional inspection is absolutely critical here. DIY removal is not advised, especially with health symptoms present; improper handling can aerosolize toxins and worsen your children's coughing.

Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the exact moisture source, provide detailed lab analysis of the mold species, and determine liability. We then execute a full remediation protocol following IICRC standards, including containment, air scrubbing, and hygienization of the area. For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 4:34 pm