Is black mold treatment landlord's or tenant's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for treating black mold depends on the source of the moisture. The landlord is responsible for fixing structural issues causing the infestation, such as leaking pipes in the walls, a faulty AC unit dripping condensation, or water seepage from a building envelope defect. You, as the tenant, are typically responsible for mold resulting from your lifestyle, like insufficient ventilation leading to condensation or failing to report a minor leak promptly.

Given your location in Jumeirah and the recent humidity spike, the cause is likely condensation from the temperature difference between your air-conditioned room and the humid outdoor air, especially in a closed closet. This is a very common issue in Dubai.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos. They should arrange an inspection to determine the moisture source. Do not attempt to clean significant black mold yourself, as improper methods can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem. For health safety and to prevent damage to your belongings, a professional assessment is needed to identify the species and the exact cause. A proper remediation plan from a certified provider will address the root moisture issue, safely remove the contaminated materials, and treat the area to prevent regrowth.