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

The ceiling in our Deira apartment bedroom has had a small damp patch for a couple of months, but since last week's humidity, it's turned into a big black splotch that looks fuzzy. My toddler sleeps in that room and I'm starting to worry. As a tenant, am I responsible for getting this tested and fixed, or is that the building management's job to handle?
Posted by Pooja Singh
Asked on March 18, 2026 4:37 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. This includes addressing structural issues that lead to dampness and subsequent mold growth, such as leaking pipes, faulty AC drainage, or cracks in the building envelope that allow water ingress. The black, fuzzy splotch you're describing is a significant growth and, given its location in a child's bedroom, constitutes a serious health and safety concern that the property owner must rectify.

As a tenant, your responsibility is typically to report the defect in writing to the landlord or building management immediately. It is not your duty to pay for the inspection or remediation of a structural issue. I strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself, as disturbing extensive black mold can aerosolize harmful mycotoxins and spores. This requires professional containment and removal.

For a case like this in Deira, where high humidity has accelerated the problem, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. We need to identify the exact moisture source and the species of mold present to execute a proper remediation protocol. Do not let your toddler sleep in that room until it has been assessed.

Our certified team can provide a comprehensive inspection report, which is often necessary to formally compel the landlord to act. Please reach out for a professional assessment. You can call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an urgent inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 21, 2026 2:53 am