Landlord or tenant responsible for mold removal in rental?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold removal in a rental property is determined by the cause of the moisture, as stipulated in Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. As a certified mold inspector, my assessment is that liability typically falls to the landlord for structural or maintenance-related issues, such as leaking pipes, faulty air conditioning units, or inadequate waterproofing. The tenant is generally responsible for mold resulting from their own negligence, such as failing to use the AC properly, not ventilating high-humidity areas like bathrooms, or causing water damage.

Given your description of the black mold in Jumeirah Village Circle, the high humidity and its location behind a large piece of furniture strongly suggest a condensation issue. This is a common problem in Dubai's climate, where year-round AC use creates significant temperature differentials, leading to condensation on cooler surfaces. While moving furniture away from walls for airflow is a tenant's duty, the persistent growth indicates a deeper environmental control problem, which often points to a landlord's responsibility for providing a habitable property.

I strongly recommend against DIY removal. Disturbing black mold can aerosolize harmful mycotoxins, exacerbating respiratory issues like the coughing you've observed. The first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing, with photos, and request a professional inspection. A certified inspector, like those at Saniservice, can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and definitively pinpoint the moisture source, which is critical for determining liability.

For a definitive assessment and safe, guaranteed remediation, please contact our specialists. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.