Who pays for black mold treatment in a rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Responsibility depends on the source of the moisture causing the mold. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing leaks from plumbing, roofs, or windows that lead to dampness and mold. If the mold is due to a building envelope issue or a burst pipe, the landlord is typically responsible for the remediation cost.

However, if the moisture source is determined to be tenant-related—such as condensation from excessive indoor drying of clothes, lack of AC use leading to humidity buildup, or failure to report a minor leak promptly—the cost may fall to the tenant. The high humidity in Dubai, especially during summer, means AC must run consistently to manage indoor moisture levels and prevent condensation on cold surfaces.

Given the symptoms and the mold's location in a closet, a professional inspection is recommended to identify the exact cause. This is crucial for determining liability. Document the issue with photos and formally notify your building management or landlord in writing. They should arrange for an assessment. For health reasons, do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper methods can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem.