Is landlord responsible for black mold from ceiling leak?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property, which includes fixing the roof leak causing your mold. You are responsible for informing them of the issue in writing and allowing reasonable time for repairs.

The landlord's claim about your AC is likely incorrect. While condensation from AC units can cause humidity issues, a persistent damp spot on the ceiling after a rain event points directly to a water intrusion problem from the building envelope. The Dubai climate, especially after winter rains, often exposes such leaks that then lead to mold growth in high-humidity conditions.

Given that the mold is on the ceiling and your wife is experiencing allergic reactions, this is a health concern that requires proper remediation. A professional inspection can verify the mold type and identify the exact moisture source, which is critical for a permanent fix. This documented evidence is also essential if you need to formally escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre.

For now, minimize exposure by sealing off the closet and consider moving the winter clothing to a dry area to prevent cross-contamination. Cleaning the visible mold without fixing the leak will only be a temporary solution.