Who is responsible for black mold removal in my Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Responsibility for black mold removal in a Dubai apartment typically falls to the landlord, as per the Dubai Rental Law. The landlord is obliged to maintain the property's structural integrity and address issues that affect livability, which includes problems stemming from building envelope defects like leaks or inadequate waterproofing that cause mold. However, if the mold growth is a direct result of tenant negligence—such as failing to use the AC, not ventilating bathrooms, or causing a water spill that wasn't dried—the tenant may be liable.

The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and including clear photographs of the black mold. Mention the health symptoms, like your kids' coughing, as this underscores the urgency. They should arrange for a professional inspection to identify the moisture source, which is critical. In Jumeirah Village Circle and across Dubai, the high humidity and year-round AC use create perfect conditions for condensation, often within wall cavities or on cold surfaces, leading to the mold you see.

Do not attempt to clean significant black mold yourself, as improper disturbance can release harmful spores. The remediation process a professional company follows involves containment of the area, using HEPA filtration, safely removing contaminated materials, and applying antimicrobial treatments. Crucially, they must fix the underlying moisture problem; otherwise, the mold will return. A post-remediation verification test, ideally from an independent lab, is the only way to confirm the space is truly safe. If your landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.