Is black mold in rental home landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is typically responsible for addressing structural issues, which includes leaks in the roof or plumbing that lead to mold growth. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, as it is likely stemming from a hidden moisture source like a leaky pipe or condensation within the AC system.

Given the black, fuzzy appearance and its spread, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the moisture source and the mold species. In Dubai's humid climate, AC systems can cause significant condensation that soaks into walls and ceilings if not properly drained. A certified inspection can determine the root cause and provide documentation for your landlord. For a toddler with allergies, prompt action is important as this type of mold can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

If the landlord refuses to act on a clear structural defect, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. However, if the moisture problem is determined to be from tenant-related activities (like inadequate ventilation), the responsibility could shift. For your safety and to properly identify the cause, engaging a company with microbiology lab testing can provide the evidence needed to resolve responsibility and ensure the remediation is done correctly.