Is landlord responsible for black mold cleanup in apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), a landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its major systems. Mold remediation falls into a grey area, but the cause is the critical factor. If the mold is a result of a structural issue the landlord must fix—such as a leaking pipe in the wall, faulty window seals allowing condensation, or a compromised building envelope—then the cleanup and any necessary repairs, including carpet replacement, are their financial and legal responsibility.

However, if the cause is determined to be tenant-related, like insufficient use of AC leading to excessive humidity, not reporting a small spill, or blocking ventilation, the responsibility shifts to you. The persistent humidity we experience, especially after rain, accelerates mold growth on organic materials like carpet backing and padding when moisture is present.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue, as they may be unaware of the underlying leak. For a case this advanced, with visible growth and health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the moisture source. This diagnostic report is crucial evidence for determining liability. While you wait, increase AC use to maintain a dry environment and avoid disturbing the mold, as this can release spores. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.