Who is responsible for black mold cleanup cost in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Dubai's tenancy law generally places maintenance responsibility on the landlord for the core structure of the property, which includes issues arising from inherent building defects like faulty waterproofing, leaking pipes in the walls, or inadequate ventilation systems that lead to persistent dampness. The high humidity here, especially in older buildings near the coast in areas like Jumeirah, is a known catalyst for mold when combined with such defects.

However, if the landlord can prove the damage resulted directly from tenant negligence—such as a failure to report a water leak for an extended period, not using the AC to control humidity, or blocking ventilation grilles—the cost burden can shift. Simply not ventilating a room adequately is a common point of contention, but it is often difficult for a landlord to prove as the sole cause, especially when the mold is hidden behind furniture on an exterior wall, a classic sign of condensation from temperature differences.

Your first step is to formally document the issue. Take clear, dated photographs of the mold and its location. Email your landlord again, stating the issue is a potential health concern for your children and is likely due to a structural dampness problem, requesting a professional assessment. For health and legal reasons, a professional inspection and lab report are advisable to confirm the mold type and identify the precise moisture source. This documented evidence is crucial.

If the landlord remains uncooperative, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC) in Dubai. They will mediate based on the evidence presented, often siding with the tenant when the issue is structural. Do not attempt to remove significant black mold yourself, as improper remediation can aerosolize spores and worsen the indoor air quality, potentially exacerbating respiratory symptoms.