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

The responsibility for black mold remediation in a rental villa in Dubai is primarily determined by the cause of the moisture, as outlined in Dubai Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai (the 'Dubai Rental Law').

Typically, structural issues that lead to moisture intrusion, such as a leaking roof, faulty external waterproofing, or compromised building envelope, are the legal responsibility of the landlord to rectify. The landlord is obligated to maintain the property in a condition that is habitable and safe. Given Dubai's high humidity levels and the prevalence of year-round air conditioning, condensation within wall cavities or on cold surfaces is a common failure of the building's thermal performance, which is a structural concern.

However, if the moisture issue is a direct result of tenant behavior—such as inadequate ventilation, failing to use exhaust fans, or not maintaining the AC system, leading to excessive indoor humidity—the responsibility for cleanup and any resultant damage may fall to the tenant.

Crucially, black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) is a serious health hazard, particularly for children, and its spores can cause persistent respiratory issues like coughing. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper disturbance releases a high concentration of toxic spores into the air. This requires professional containment and remediation.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue, requesting immediate professional inspection and remediation. Given the potential health impact on your children, this is urgent. For a definitive assessment of the mold type, moisture source, and scope of contamination, we strongly recommend a certified mold inspection. Our experts at Saniservice can provide a comprehensive report to determine liability and the required corrective actions. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.