Is landlord responsible for black mold cleanup in Jumeirah?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental law, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects or faulty infrastructure, such as leaking pipes or inadequate waterproofing that lead to mold. You are responsible for issues resulting from your own actions, like lack of ventilation or interior water damage you caused.

Given the location—a closet on the ceiling—this likely stems from a pre-existing condensation or seepage issue, especially after a humid period. The first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best), with clear photos, and request immediate remediation. They are obligated to investigate and fix the source of the moisture.

For a case this visible and linked to health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the exact moisture source and mold type. Remediation isn't just wiping the visible spot; it requires fixing the underlying water issue and properly containing the area during cleanup to prevent spores from spreading throughout the AC system. In Jumeirah, with high humidity and year-round AC use, condensation in poorly insulated ceilings is a common culprit.

If your landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Center (RDC). Keep all correspondence documented. For your family's health, address this quickly—do not attempt a DIY cleanup on black mold, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem.