Is cleaning black mold my landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

As a certified mold inspector and remediator in Dubai, I can provide a clear answer based on UAE tenancy law and the nature of the problem you've described.

The responsibility for addressing the black mold in your JVC villa is almost certainly your landlord's. According to UAE law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and ensuring it is habitable. A significant mold infestation, especially one caused by a structural or maintenance issue, falls under this obligation. The key factor is the root cause. The humid week you mentioned is a trigger, but the underlying issue is likely persistent condensation from an AC unit, a leaking pipe in the wall, or inadequate insulation—all structural elements the landlord must rectify.

However, your immediate priority is your family's health. The persistent cough in your children is a major red flag. Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) can produce mycotoxins that are particularly harmful to respiratory systems. Do not attempt to clean this yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize the spores and worsen the air quality.

You must first formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue and request immediate professional assessment and remediation. For a case of this severity, I strongly recommend a certified inspection to identify the exact species and the moisture source. Our team at Saniservice uses thermal imaging and borescopes to pinpoint hidden leaks within walls, which is common in Dubai's climate where year-round AC use can lead to condensation issues if units are not properly maintained.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate to the Dubai Land Department (RDC). For a professional inspection and a legally compliant report to present to your landlord, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Your children's health is not something to delay on.