Who is responsible for fixing black mold in rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, responsibility depends on the source of the moisture causing the mold. If the mold is due to a structural issue like a leaking pipe, faulty waterproofing, or a crack in the building envelope, the landlord is typically responsible for repairs under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007). You must notify them in writing immediately.

However, if the issue is due to tenant-related causes like lack of ventilation, condensation from AC units set too cold, or moisture from daily activities, the tenant is often responsible for the cleanup. The location behind a wardrobe is a common spot for condensation buildup in our humid climate, as furniture restricts air circulation.

Given the rapid spread you've described, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the exact moisture source. This is crucial for determining liability. The inspector will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to trace the issue. If the landlord is responsible, provide them with the inspection report. For tenant-caused condensation, you'll need to address the mold promptly to prevent health issues and property damage.

Regardless of fault, improve ventilation immediately. Move the wardrobe away from the wall, ensure your AC is functioning correctly and set to a reasonable temperature (around 22-24°C), and consider using a dehumidifier. For a patch that size, professional remediation is recommended to ensure it's properly contained and removed.