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

Contact your landlord first—it's their legal responsibility under Dubai rental law to address structural issues causing mold, like hidden leaks or insulation problems. Mold this extensive, especially on an exterior wall in a humid marina-facing apartment, often indicates a persistent moisture source that needs fixing at the source.

Document everything with clear photos and a written notice to your landlord or property manager. They should arrange for a professional inspection to identify the root cause, which is often condensation from AC units, leaking pipes within the wall, or inadequate thermal insulation—all common in Dubai's climate.

While waiting, move the wardrobe away from the wall to improve air circulation. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this can disturb toxic spores and doesn't address the moisture problem. The landlord should engage a certified remediation company that follows DHA guidelines, including containment, safe removal, and verification through post-remediation testing. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC).