Is landlord responsible for black mold removal?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically governed by the lease agreement and the Civil Code. Generally, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking central AC systems, or poor insulation that leads to condensation. Given your location in Al Barsha and the recent humid weather, this is a common scenario. The constant AC use can actually contribute to the problem if the unit is not properly sized or maintained, as it may cause extreme temperature differentials that lead to condensation on cold surfaces, like walls behind furniture.

However, tenants are responsible for damages resulting from negligence, such as a failure to ventilate the property adequately. Since your AC is always on, this argument from the landlord may be weak, as AC is the primary method of humidity control and ventilation in Dubai's climate.

Legally, the burden of proof is key. To determine liability, a professional inspection is crucial. A certified mold assessor can identify the moisture source—whether it's an internal leak, rising damp, condensation due to a thermal bridge, or indeed, inadequate ventilation. They will provide a detailed report that is essential for any discussion with your landlord.

For a definitive answer and to protect your family's health, I strongly recommend a professional assessment. Our team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive investigation, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to identify the root cause. This report will clarify responsibility and is often necessary to compel a landlord to act. Given the child's coughing, immediate action is advised. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.