Mold in apartment: landlord or tenant responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, responsibility typically falls on the landlord for structural repairs, which includes fixing the source of water intrusion causing the mold. As a tenant, you are responsible for reporting the issue promptly and for any damage caused by your own negligence or failure to ventilate the property.

Your situation in JVC—black mold at a ceiling corner growing with humidity—strongly suggests a leak from the AC condensation line, a pipe penetration, or a roof leak. This is a structural moisture source, making it the landlord's responsibility to investigate and fix. Document the growth with dated photos and formally notify your landlord or property manager in writing immediately, as delays can lead to more extensive damage.

While waiting for the landlord's response, keep the area dry and well-ventilated. Do not attempt to scrub it, as this can aerosolize spores. For a patch that size and growing, a professional inspection is advised to identify the exact moisture source and mold type, as some species require specific remediation protocols. In Dubai's climate, with high humidity and year-round AC use, condensation and leaks are common triggers that need proper addressing to prevent recurrence. The remediation itself should be handled by a qualified contractor to ensure it's done safely and effectively.