Who is responsible for black mold cleanup in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically determined by the source of the moisture.

The landlord is legally responsible for the structural integrity of the property and for maintaining the building's major systems. This includes ensuring the air conditioning (AC) unit is functioning correctly and not producing excessive condensation due to a fault, repairing leaking pipes, and fixing any structural defects like cracks or leaks in the external walls or roof that allow water ingress. If the mold is a result of such an underlying issue, the landlord bears the full financial responsibility for both the repair of the defect and the professional mold remediation.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition through everyday practices. In Dubai's humid climate, where AC runs constantly, this means ventilating the property regularly to reduce humidity, promptly reporting any leaks or issues, and not obstructing ventilation grilles. If the landlord can prove the mold growth is solely due to the tenant's negligence—such as completely preventing airflow by placing furniture directly against walls, failing to use extractor fans, or not reporting a minor leak—they could argue the tenant is liable for the cleanup costs.

Given your situation in JVC, with visible black mold and health symptoms, the cause must be professionally diagnosed. Hidden AC drain line leaks or faulty insulation are common culprits. We strongly recommend you immediately schedule a professional inspection with a certified mold assessment company like Saniservice. Our experts will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and, crucially, use moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint the exact moisture source. This technical report is vital evidence to definitively establish legal responsibility with your landlord.

Do not attempt to remove significant black mold yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate spore dispersal and health risks. For a proper assessment and to discuss your case, call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.