Is landlord responsible for hidden black mold in apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai law, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues like water leaks and the resulting damage, such as hidden mold. Since the mold is behind a fixed wardrobe and caused by a damp wall, this strongly suggests a leak or condensation issue from the building's structure or plumbing, placing responsibility on the landlord.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the mold and the damp wall. They are obligated to investigate and fix the source of the moisture. The persistent high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai can cause condensation within walls if there's a breach or insulation failure, which is a structural repair.

Do not attempt to clean it yourself. Disturbing a large patch of black mold can release a significant number of spores. A professional inspection is needed to identify the exact moisture source and the mold type, as some species require specific remediation protocols. The landlord should arrange for both the leak repair and the mold remediation. If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.