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

Based on the UAE Civil Code and the standard tenancy contract terms in Dubai, the landlord is typically responsible for the structural integrity of the property and for addressing issues that constitute a fundamental defect affecting the habitability of the unit. The presence of widespread black mold, especially of the type that is causing health symptoms, often falls under this category.

The key factor is the root cause of the moisture. If the mold is a result of a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, a crack in the external facade allowing water ingress, or a faulty AC drainage system that is the landlord's responsibility to maintain, then the remediation cost falls squarely on the landlord. However, if the moisture is solely due to tenant lifestyle factors (e.g., inadequate ventilation, drying clothes indoors) that were not mitigated despite the property being structurally sound, the tenant may be liable.

Your situation—mold behind furniture on an exterior wall—is extremely common in Dubai due to our high humidity and the temperature differential between the air-conditioned interior and the hot exterior, which leads to condensation. This is often a design or insulation issue, not a tenant-caused one. The fact that your dehumidifier is running constantly suggests an underlying moisture problem that it cannot overcome.

Given the health symptoms your children are experiencing, this is a serious case that requires immediate professional assessment. I strongly recommend you contact your landlord in writing, inform them of the issue and the health impact, and request a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector can identify the exact species of mold and, crucially, use tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the moisture source, determining liability.

For a definitive resolution, engage a professional remediation company like Saniservice. We can provide the inspection report needed to formally present the case to your landlord and execute the necessary containment, removal, and hygienization to ensure your family's safety. You can reach us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com for an immediate consultation.