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

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property's main components, including walls, roofs, and the building envelope. The black mold growth you've described behind the wardrobe is a direct result of a persistent dampness issue, which is considered a structural defect affecting the habitability of the villa. Therefore, the remediation of the mold and, crucially, the repair of the underlying moisture source (likely a leaking pipe, faulty external waterproofing, or a thermal bridge causing condensation) are the landlord's legal obligation.

However, immediate action is critical for your family's health, as prolonged exposure to Stachybotrys (black mold) mycotoxins can cause serious respiratory issues, especially in children. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper disturbance will aerosolize the spores and contaminate your entire home.

You must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing of the issue and request immediate professional remediation. Given the Dubai climate, where high humidity and year-round AC use can create significant condensation problems, a certified inspection is essential to diagnose the exact moisture source.

We strongly recommend you contact a professional environmental service like Saniservice. Our certified experts can conduct a comprehensive inspection, provide a detailed report for your landlord confirming the cause and required remediation scope, and safely execute the cleanup using industry-standard containment and air scrubbing protocols. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.