Who is responsible for hidden black mold in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues like hidden dampness and mold resulting from building defects, such as a leaking AC condensation line or poor insulation. Since this mold is under the carpet and likely from a prior AC leak, it falls under the landlord's obligation to repair.

Document the issue immediately with clear photos and videos, noting the location and any musty odor. Send this evidence to your landlord or property manager in writing (email is best for a paper trail). Mention your children's health symptoms, as this adds urgency. If the landlord continues to dismiss it, you can file a formal complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC). They typically rule in favor of tenants for habitability and health concerns.

Given the climate here, with high humidity and year-round AC use, hidden mold can spread quickly and often indicates an ongoing moisture problem. A professional inspection is crucial to identify the moisture source—simply cleaning the visible patch is ineffective if the leak persists. For health safety, especially with children coughing, a lab test can identify the mold species to better understand the potential risk.