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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation, particularly in a rental scenario, is dictated by the cause of the problem. According to standard tenancy contract stipulations and Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property and maintaining it in a habitable condition. This includes addressing the underlying cause of the mold, which is almost always excess moisture.

Your description points to a classic case of condensation-driven mold growth, exacerbated by our climate. The heavy dew indicates high ambient humidity, which, when combined with cold spots on the building's structure (like an external wall corner in a closet) and year-round AC use creating temperature differentials, leads to condensation. This persistent dampness is the root cause. Simply wiping the visible mold is a temporary fix; the microscopic spores and hyphae remain embedded, and the moisture source continues to feed regrowth.

The landlord's obligation is to investigate and rectify the source of the moisture intrusion. This could involve repairing faulty external waterproofing, addressing inadequate insulation on that cold wall, or fixing faulty AC drainage lines that may be contributing to humidity. The actual remediation of the mold itself may be a point of discussion, but the repair of the building defect is their clear responsibility.

For a definitive assessment and to protect your family's health—especially given the respiratory symptoms your children are experiencing—a professional inspection is critical. We at Saniservice can provide a certified inspection and moisture mapping report that definitively identifies the source. This report is a powerful document to present to your landlord, clearly outlining their responsibility. For your health and to resolve this correctly, I strongly recommend you call us for an assessment at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.