Black mold in Dubai apartment: landlord covers removal cost?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues like water infiltration or chronic dampness that lead to mold growth. If the mold is a result of a building envelope defect, a leaking pipe, or faulty AC drainage, the repair and remediation cost should fall on the landlord.

However, if the cause is determined to be tenant-related—such as insufficient use of AC leading to condensation, blocking ventilation, or not reporting a leak promptly—the cost may be yours to bear. The humidity here creates a high condensation risk, especially on colder exterior walls behind furniture.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) with clear photos of the mold and the damp wall. Request an immediate inspection to identify the source of the moisture. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper methods can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem.

For a case with visible spreading, a professional assessment is crucial. Reputable remediation companies will diagnose the moisture source first, contain the area to prevent cross-contamination, remove the affected materials properly, and treat the area with antimicrobial solutions. They should also provide verification, such as before-and-after air quality test results from an accredited lab, to confirm the space is safe. This documented process is what you or your landlord should look for to ensure the job is done correctly.