Is black mold in my apartment landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on my professional experience with mold inspection and remediation in Dubai, the responsibility for addressing black mold in your Marina apartment is almost certainly the landlord's, provided you have been using the air conditioning appropriately.

The core issue is typically a building envelope or maintenance defect, not occupant behavior. While the landlord may claim insufficient AC use, Dubai's extreme humidity and the specific location (a closet against an exterior wall) strongly suggest a hidden problem. The "back wall" you mention is a critical clue; it is likely a cold bridge or has a hidden leak from adjacent plumbing, an AC condensation drain line, or seepage from the building facade, which is common in older Marina towers. These are structural or maintenance issues under the landlord's purview.

Under UAE tenancy law, the landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for major repairs and structural maintenance. Your responsibility as a tenant is limited to general upkeep and reporting issues promptly, which you have done. Merely wiping the visible mold is insufficient and hazardous. Disturbing it releases spores, and the root moisture source must be professionally identified and rectified.

I strongly recommend you cease DIY cleaning and request a professional mold inspection. Our teams use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact moisture source behind the wall—whether it's condensation due to poor insulation or an active leak. This evidence-based report is crucial for formally communicating with your landlord and establishing liability.

For a definitive assessment and to resolve this safely, please contact our specialists. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection. We can provide the technical report needed to ensure your landlord fulfills their obligation to perform the necessary remediation and repairs.