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

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, landlords are legally obligated to provide a habitable and well-maintained property. This includes addressing structural issues and defects that affect the health and safety of the tenants. The key factor here is the root cause of the mold.

If the black mold growth in your Al Barsha apartment is a result of a structural defect—such as a leaking pipe in the wall, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation within the building envelope—then the remediation and repair are unequivocally the landlord's responsibility. The persistent high humidity in Dubai, especially during summer months, often exacerbates these underlying issues, but the primary cause is the building defect.

However, if the mold is solely due to tenant-related lifestyle factors, like insufficient use of air conditioning to control humidity, drying clothes indoors, or blocking ventilation grilles, the responsibility for cleanup may fall to you.

Given your children's respiratory symptoms and the visible growth, this is a serious health concern. Black mold (likely Stachybotrys chartarum) releases mycotoxins that can cause chronic coughing, headaches, and other allergic reactions. A professional inspection is critical to determine the exact moisture source and extent of contamination. DIY removal is strongly discouraged for black mold, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and significantly worsen indoor air quality, exacerbating health issues.

We recommend you immediately notify your landlord in writing about the issue and request a professional assessment. For a certified inspection and remediation process that follows Dubai Municipality guidelines, you should contact a specialist like Saniservice. They can provide a detailed report identifying the cause, which is essential for determining liability, and perform the necessary containment, removal, and hygienization to ensure your family's safety. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an urgent consultation.