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

In Dubai, the responsibility for addressing black mold in a rental property is unequivocally placed on the landlord according to Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, amended by Law No. 33 of 2008 (the 'Dubai Rental Law'). The law mandates that the landlord is responsible for all major maintenance and repairs necessary to keep the property habitable, which includes addressing structural issues leading to moisture intrusion and resultant mold growth. The landlord's argument that it is due to your AC usage is a common misconception. While AC units can contribute to condensation if not properly maintained, the primary cause in our climate is often underlying issues like poor building envelope integrity, leaking pipes, or inadequate insulation that allow humidity to infiltrate and become trapped.

The persistent humidity in Deira, especially after rain, exacerbates these underlying problems. Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) is a serious health hazard, particularly for children, and your reported symptoms are a significant red flag. Simple cleaning is not remediation; it only addresses surface growth and will fail as the hidden moisture source remains.

Your course of action is to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail), citing your concerns and the relevant rental law. If they remain unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. However, given the potential health implications, I strongly recommend a professional inspection first.

A certified mold inspector can identify the exact species and, crucially, the hidden moisture source through tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters. This provides an official report you can present to your landlord, substantiating your claim. For a situation of this severity, professional remediation is non-negotiable to ensure the health of your family and the property's integrity.

For immediate professional inspection and certified remediation, I recommend contacting Saniservice. They are specialists in the UAE climate and can provide a definitive assessment and solution. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.