Landlord responsible for black mold in humid Jumeirah bedroom?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai's rental properties, the landlord is typically responsible for addressing structural issues that cause mold, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation. You are generally responsible for issues stemming from your own activities, like not using the AC adequately or blocking vents.

Given the location behind a wardrobe in a humid climate, the primary cause is likely condensation due to poor air circulation and the high ambient humidity. The first step is to move the wardrobe away from the wall to allow air to circulate. Wipe the visible mold with a dilute bleach solution, but note this only addresses surface growth, not the underlying moisture problem.

For a persistent issue, you should formally notify your landlord in writing, as they are obligated to provide a habitable property. Mention the specific location and that it is likely due to a lack of ventilation or a potential hidden leak. A professional inspection is recommended to identify the exact moisture source—whether it's condensation, an internal leak, or seepage. In Dubai, remediation often involves moisture meters, thermal imaging, and air quality tests to pinpoint the cause before any corrective action like improving ventilation or repairing a leak is taken. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.