Who pays for black mold repair in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold repair in Dubai rentals depends on the cause. Under the standard rental contract (EJARI), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing leaks from external walls, plumbing within the walls, or faulty AC drainage that led to the moisture.

Since you suspect a leak in the external wall, this is likely the landlord's responsibility to repair. You must notify them in writing immediately, detailing the issue and its suspected cause. They are obligated to address the source of the water intrusion.

The cost of the actual mold remediation—the cleaning and removal—can be a gray area. If the mold is a direct result of the landlord's failure to maintain the structure (like fixing a known leak), they should cover the full cost of remediation. However, if the mold resulted from tenant negligence, like failing to use the AC to control humidity or not reporting a spill, the tenant might be liable.

For a significant patch spreading on a wall, a professional inspection is critical. DIY cleaning often fails to address the root moisture problem, and hidden mold within the wall cavity is common in such cases. The Dubai climate, with its high humidity and constant AC use, creates perfect conditions for mold to thrive if any moisture is present. A proper assessment will determine the full extent and the exact source of the moisture, which is essential for resolving the issue permanently and determining responsibility.