Is the landlord responsible for black mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for addressing black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) in a rental property is almost always the landlord's under Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The law mandates that the landlord is responsible for all major maintenance work related to the property's structure and key systems, including plumbing and air conditioning. A slow leak from an AC unit is a clear maintenance issue that falls under the landlord's obligation. Their claim that running the AC "too cold" is the cause is not legally valid. The Dubai climate, with its extreme humidity and the year-round necessity of AC use, inherently leads to condensation issues if the AC system is not properly maintained or if there are deficiencies in the building's insulation and vapor barriers.

Your primary concern is health. The persistent coughing in your children is a significant indicator of potential mycotoxin exposure. Black mold requires professional inspection and remediation. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize the spores and exacerbate the health risks and contamination.

I strongly recommend you formally request, in writing, that the landlord arrange for a professional environmental inspection and subsequent remediation. If they refuse, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For immediate professional assessment, you can contact our specialists at Saniservice. We provide certified mold inspection, including air quality and surface sampling, and comprehensive remediation services to ensure the problem is resolved safely and permanently. Call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Your family's health is paramount.