Black mold in Dubai rental: landlord or cleaning company first?« Back to Previous Page

Document the mold with clear photos and notify your landlord in writing immediately. Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords are typically responsible for addressing structural issues causing dampness or leaks, which this likely is given its location on an exterior wall.

Before any cleaning occurs, the moisture source must be identified and fixed. A professional inspection is crucial here to determine if it's condensation from the temperature differential between your AC-cooled room and the exterior wall, or a more serious hidden leak from plumbing or a breach in the building envelope. Cleaning it without solving the root cause will result in its swift return.

For a patch behind clothes, a specialized mold remediation company, not a general cleaner, is needed. They will contain the area to prevent spore dispersal, safely remove the affected materials, and treat the area with antimicrobial solutions. The landlord should arrange and cover the cost of this remediation if it is determined to be a structural issue.

In Dubai's climate, this is a common issue. To prevent recurrence after remediation, ensure your AC is well-maintained and set to a consistent temperature to reduce condensation, and keep items slightly away from exterior walls to improve air circulation.