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

Under the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the property's fundamental structure and ensuring it is habitable. This includes addressing issues like water leaks or seepage in the building's exterior walls or plumbing that lead to hidden mold growth. The obligation to provide a property free from defects that affect its intended use falls on the landlord.

Since the mold is behind a wardrobe on an external wall, its origin is likely a pre-existing leak or significant condensation due to inadequate insulation—a structural issue. Document the problem immediately with clear photos and videos, noting its proximity to the wall. Formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the discovery and its probable structural cause. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper disturbance can spread spores and worsen air quality.

For lease renewal, the landlord should rectify this health and safety issue beforehand. A professional inspection is crucial to identify the moisture source; in Dubai's climate, hidden condensation within walls is common due to the high humidity and constant AC use creating temperature differentials. Remediation is only effective once the root cause is fixed. If the landlord disputes responsibility, you may need to escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai, as a significant mold infestation can be considered a breach of the landlord's warranty of habitation.