Who is responsible for black mold treatment, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Responsibility for black mold treatment in a Dubai apartment lease depends on the cause, as defined by Law No. 26 of 2007 (Amended by Law No. 33 of 2008). The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structure and ensure it is habitable. This includes fixing leaks from external walls, roofs, or faulty central AC ducts that cause condensation—a primary driver of mold in our humid climate.

As the tenant, you are responsible for reporting the issue immediately in writing and for damage resulting from your own negligence, like failing to use the AC to control humidity or causing internal water damage. Since the mold is on the ceiling and worsened with seasonal humidity, a leak or insufficient insulation is the likely culprit. Document the growth with dated photos and formally notify your landlord or property management company. They should arrange for a professional inspection to identify the moisture source.

For a case this advanced, a lab test is advisable to confirm the mold type and guide the remediation scope. Do not attempt to clean significant Stachybotrys (black mold) growth yourself, as improper handling can spread spores. The remediation cost typically falls to the party responsible for the underlying moisture issue, which your documentation will help determine.