Are tenants or landlord responsible for black mold cleanup?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for black mold cleanup depends on the source of the moisture. The landlord is legally responsible for fixing the underlying cause if it's a structural issue, such as a leaking pipe inside the wall, faulty waterproofing, or seepage from the building envelope. As a tenant, you are generally responsible for issues stemming from daily living, like insufficient ventilation.

Given the location in a Marina apartment—a high-humidity microclimate—and the fact that a dehumidifier hasn't resolved it, this strongly suggests a persistent moisture source beyond normal condensation. The back wall of a closet is a common spot for hidden leaks or cold bridge condensation from an adjacent AC duct chase.

Your first step is to formally notify the landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos. They must arrange a professional inspection to diagnose the moisture source. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this will only temporarily remove the visible stain without addressing the root problem, allowing it to return.

The remediation process itself should be handled by professionals once the cause is fixed. Proper mold removal involves containment, HEPA filtration, and antimicrobial treatment to prevent spore dispersal. In many cases, the affected drywall may need to be removed and replaced. A post-remediation verification test from an independent lab is the only way to confirm the space is truly safe.