Who handles black mold cost, tenant or landlord in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for handling black mold and its cost typically falls on the landlord, as they are obligated to provide a habitable property under Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. This includes maintaining the structural integrity of the building, which covers issues like water leaks or inadequate insulation that lead to mold growth. The recent spike in humidity is a common catalyst, as it exacerbates underlying moisture problems within the building envelope, often around AC units or in poorly ventilated spaces like closets.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue, as it is a health concern affecting your children. Include clear photos showing the spread. The landlord is generally responsible for arranging and paying for the remediation of the mold itself. However, if the inspection determines the cause was tenant negligence—such as a failure to use the AC, leading to excessive condensation and humidity buildup inside the unit—the cost could potentially be shifted.

Given the visible spread and health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the exact moisture source and mold species. DIY removal is not recommended for a case of this size, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem. The remediation process should address the root cause, such as fixing a leak or improving ventilation, not just wiping the visible growth. For verification of a proper cleanup, you can request that the company provides post-remediation testing results from an independent lab.