Black mold in rental: who pays for repairs in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai rentals, the responsibility for mold remediation and repair costs depends on the cause. If the mold resulted from a structural issue like a leaking pipe, faulty waterproofing, or a building envelope defect (common with balcony water ingress), the landlord is typically responsible for the repairs under Dubai's rental law. However, if the cause is tenant-related, such as inadequate ventilation leading to condensation, the tenant may be liable.

Given the description—dampness behind a wardrobe in a humid climate—this is frequently a condensation issue. Wardrooms placed against exterior walls can trap cold air from the AC, creating a perfect environment for mold when it meets the warm, humid air from the bathroom or the room itself. The black spots spreading and paint flaking indicate an active, established problem.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos. Do not attempt to simply paint over it, as the mold will return. A professional inspection is strongly advised to determine the exact moisture source and extent. They can use moisture meters and thermal cameras to see if the dampness is coming from within the wall. This documented report is your strongest evidence for determining liability.

For your toddler's health, improve air circulation immediately. Move the wardrobe away from the wall and use a dehumidifier or run the AC in dry mode to lower indoor humidity. Most AC units here recirculate air and do not bring in fresh air, so managing internal moisture is critical. Surface cleaning with a vinegar or diluted bleach solution can temporarily reduce visible spores, but it will not address the underlying dampness.

Ultimately, the landlord should be involved to fix the root cause, whether it's a repair or simply acknowledging the need for professional mold remediation due to a pre-existing condensation trap.