Is black mold my landlord's responsibility to remove?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation typically falls on the landlord if the issue stems from a structural or maintenance-related defect. This includes problems like leaking pipes in the walls, faulty AC drainage, or cracks in the building envelope that allow moisture ingress. The high humidity and constant AC use create perfect conditions for hidden mold behind furniture and in walls, especially in older Deira buildings.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the discovery and including photos. They are generally obligated to address the source of the moisture. However, if the humidity is solely from indoor activities (like drying clothes inside) and not a building fault, the responsibility may be less clear.

Given the visible growth and your children's symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. DIY cleaning on a spread-out patch often fails to address the root moisture problem and can aerosolize spores. An inspector can identify the exact moisture source and determine if it's a maintenance issue for the landlord. For verifiable results, the process should include moisture mapping and, if necessary, lab analysis of a tape-lift sample to identify the mold type. This documented evidence is crucial for discussions with your landlord about necessary remediation.