Is black mold behind furniture the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the landlord is generally responsible for resolving structural issues that cause mold, such as leaks in external walls, plumbing, or faulty AC drainage. Your situation in Jumeirah Village Circle is common due to high humidity and condensation, especially when furniture is placed against an exterior wall, restricting airflow. This can create a cold spot where moisture condenses and mold grows.

As a tenant, your responsibility is to report the issue to the landlord or property management company immediately. Do this in writing (email is best) and include clear photographs. Prompt reporting is crucial as it prevents the problem from worsening and formally notifies the landlord of their obligation to investigate and remediate the source of the moisture.

For a patch described as "large," a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the exact moisture source and assess the extent. Remediation often involves more than just wiping the surface; the wall may need specialized drying and treatment to prevent recurrence. The landlord should arrange and cover the cost of this repair, as it pertains to the property's condition.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), which mandates landlords must maintain the property to ensure it is habitable. You may need to escalate to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. In the meantime, keep the furniture away from the wall and improve air circulation in the room to help manage humidity.