Is my landlord responsible for fixing toxic black mold?« Back to Previous Page

Under UAE tenancy law (Law No. 26 of 2007), your landlord is responsible for addressing structural issues that lead to mold, such as leaks in walls or faulty window seals that allowed water ingress from the February rains. In Al Barsha, the combination of high humidity and condensation from year-round AC use can turn any small leak into a persistent mold problem.

The black substance is likely Aspergillus niger or Cladosporium, which are common here and can cause the respiratory irritation you've observed. Simply wiping it is insufficient, as the root moisture problem remains. You should formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue and request a professional inspection to identify the leak's source. A proper fix involves repairing the water entry point, not just the visible mold.

For your family's health and to verify the extent, a professional assessment with air or surface sampling is recommended. This provides documented evidence of the species and spore levels, which is crucial if the landlord disputes responsibility. The cost of remediation typically falls on the landlord for structural repairs, while minor surface cleaning might be a tenant responsibility, but the primary obligation to provide a habitable property rests with the owner.