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

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 and its amendments, the landlord is fundamentally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues with the building envelope, such as leaks or seepage through external walls, roofs, or windows that lead to dampness and subsequent mold growth.

In your case, the issue began after the heavy rains in Sharjah, strongly indicating a potential water intrusion through the building's exterior. This type of ingress is typically the landlord's responsibility to investigate and repair. The presence of black mold (likely Stachybotrys chartarum) is a direct symptom of that unresolved moisture problem. As a tenant, your responsibility is to report the issue in writing to the landlord or property management company immediately and allow them a reasonable timeframe to address it. You are generally responsible for the cost of remediation only if the moisture source is proven to be due to your negligence, such as internal flooding you failed to report or excessive condensation from improper ventilation.

However, given the potential health risks associated with black mold exposure, especially in a bedroom, we strongly advise against attempting removal yourself. Disturbing the mold can aerosolize toxic mycotoxins. A professional inspection is critical to identify the exact moisture source and the extent of the contamination. Our certified teams at Saniservice use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the leak and then perform containment-based remediation following IICRC standards to ensure it is removed safely and completely.

For immediate assistance and to discuss your specific situation, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can provide a detailed report that can be used to formally communicate the required repairs to your landlord.