Is black mold cleanup my responsibility or landlord's?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code and the specifics of your tenancy contract, structural maintenance and repairs to fixed installations like the air conditioning system are typically the legal responsibility of the landlord. The persistent leak from the AC unit, which is the root cause of the black mold growth, constitutes a structural issue. As a tenant in a Marina apartment, your obligation is generally to report such issues in a timely manner, which you have done.

The black, fuzzy patches you describe are highly indicative of a significant mold infestation, likely Stachybotrys chartarum or another toxigenic species, which thrives in the constant humidity and condensation from a leaking AC unit—a very common issue in Dubai's climate. This is not a superficial problem; the mold has penetrated the wall and contaminated porous materials like clothing, presenting a potential health risk.

We strongly recommend you formally re-notify your landlord in writing, emphasizing the health hazard and property damage. Simultaneously, for your safety and to document the severity, you should engage a professional mold inspection company. A certified expert can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the spore types and concentration levels, providing a formal report that can be used to compel the landlord to act.

For a situation of this magnitude, professional remediation is not just advised but essential. Improper cleaning can aerosolize toxins and spread the infestation further. Our team at Saniservice specializes in diagnosing and resolving such mold issues with industry-leading containment and removal protocols. We can provide the necessary documentation for your landlord and ensure the problem is eradicated safely. Please contact us for an immediate assessment at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.