Who is responsible for black mold on my rntal wall?« Back to Previous Page

The wall behind our sofa in the living room has started getting these black speckles, and it's been spreading since the weather got really humid a few weeks ago. We're in a rented apartment in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, and I’m constantly wiping it away but it just comes back. Who is responsible for dealing with this, me or my landlord, and should they be the one to pay for an inspection?
Posted by Pooja Singh
Asked on April 15, 2026 1:20 am
The responsibility typically falls on your landlord to address the structural issue causing the mold, which is a building maintenance problem. Under UAE tenancy law, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the property's structure, including walls and the integrity of the building envelope. This black speckling is almost certainly mold, a direct result of excess moisture trapped within the wall, a condition very common in JLT apartments due to high humidity and continuous AC use creating condensation points.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, with clear photos showing the extent and location. Avoid simply wiping it, as this disturbs spores and only addresses the surface symptom, not the hidden moisture source. The landlord should arrange for a professional inspection to identify the root cause—often a hidden leak, insufficient insulation creating a cold spot (thermal bridging), or compromised external sealing. The remediation cost should be covered by them, as it is a property defect. If they are unresponsive, you can reference your rights to a habitable property under Dubai's rental laws and may need to escalate through the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC).
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 15, 2026 10:21 am