Landlord or tenant responsible for black mold in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing the source of water intrusion or condensation that led to the mold growth, such as a leaking pipe, faulty AC drain line, or a crack in the external wall allowing humidity ingress. The tenant is typically responsible for issues resulting from their own negligence, like failing to use the AC or causing interior water damage.

Given the location in Jumeirah Village and the description of a constant damp smell that a dehumidifier can't control, this is almost certainly a structural or systemic issue. The black mold behind the wardrobe indicates a persistent moisture source within the wall or floor, which is the landlord's obligation to investigate and repair. The year-round high humidity and AC use in Dubai makes condensation and hidden leaks a common problem.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property manager in writing, with clear photos of the mold and a description of the ongoing issue. They should arrange for a professional inspection to identify the moisture source. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing extensive black mold can aerosolize spores. The remediation process must address the root cause first; otherwise, the mold will return. For verification, a reputable inspection with lab analysis can identify the mold species and the extent of the problem, which provides concrete evidence for the landlord. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.