Is landlord responsible for black mold in humid weather?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues like persistent dampness or water ingress that lead to mold growth, as these are considered structural or building envelope problems.

Your situation in Jumeirah is common here; high humidity condenses on cooler interior walls, especially behind furniture blocking airflow like wardrobes. The landlord should be notified immediately with clear photos. They are typically obligated to investigate and fix the source of the moisture, such as a leaking pipe or inadequate insulation, and then handle the professional remediation of the affected area.

For a patch that is actively spreading, this is beyond a simple DIY clean. Improper cleaning can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem. A professional inspection is needed to identify the moisture source and the mold species. The remediation process itself involves containment, safe removal of contaminated materials, and antimicrobial treatment to prevent recurrence.

Start by formally notifying your landlord in writing. If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For your own due diligence, you can request a professional assessment; a certified inspector can provide a documented report identifying the moisture source and extent of growth, which serves as strong evidence for your landlord or the RDC.