Are we responsible for landlord's hidden black mold?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is almost certainly responsible for repairs in this scenario. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is obligated to maintain the property's structure, including walls and internal plumbing that constitute the core of the property. A hidden leak and the resulting structural mold growth fall squarely under their duty to provide a habitable premises.

Your first step is to formally notify the landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the mold and a description of the dampness. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can release spores. A hidden leak suggests a potential issue within the wall cavity that requires professional leak detection and mold remediation to prevent recurrence. The high humidity in Dubai, especially during summer, will cause mold from a water leak to proliferate rapidly.

Given the size ("huge patch") and that it's hidden, a professional inspection is strongly advised to determine the full extent of the moisture damage and identify the exact leak source. This documented assessment from a certified provider can be crucial for your landlord to understand the severity. While you wait for their response, ensure the room is well-ventilated. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. Your standard tenancy contract should outline maintenance responsibilities, but structural issues are typically the owner's financial responsibility.