Who pays for black mold removal in a rented apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold removal in a rental property typically falls on the landlord, as they are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and habitability of the property. The black mold you've found is a direct result of the AC unit leaking water, which is a maintenance issue the property owner must address.

Start by notifying your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, including clear photos of both the mold and the leaking AC unit. Under Dubai's rental laws, they are generally obligated to fix problems related to the building's essential systems, like air conditioning, that are causing secondary damage. The persistent humidity and year-round AC use in Dubai make condensation leaks a common catalyst for mold growth behind furniture and in walls.

For your safety, avoid disturbing the mold patch. A small, surface-level issue might be resolved by the landlord's maintenance team cleaning the area and fixing the leak. However, since the mold is on a wall and was hidden, a professional inspection is wise to rule out more extensive growth inside the cavity. The landlord should cover the cost of both the leak repair and the subsequent mold remediation to restore the property to a habitable condition. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.