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

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a spreading patch of black mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet, which shares a wall with the bathroom. It's gotten a lot worse since the humidity spiked last month. My landlord says it's our fault for not ventilating properly, but we always run the AC. Who is legally responsible for the cleanup and repairs in this situation?
Posted by Aarti Shah
Asked on April 4, 2026 1:40 am
In the UAE, the responsibility for black mold remediation in a rental property is typically determined by the cause of the moisture, as outlined in Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended). The persistent high humidity and condensation issues inherent to Dubai's climate are a primary factor. If the mold growth in your Jumeirah apartment is due to a structural issue, such as a hidden leak in the plumbing behind the bathroom wall, a faulty AC drain line, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation within the wall cavity, the responsibility for investigation, repairs, and remediation falls squarely on the landlord.

However, if the investigation conclusively proves the moisture source is solely from occupant habits—like failing to run the AC consistently or drying clothes indoors—the tenant may be liable. That said, given the location (a closet sharing a wall with a bathroom) and your consistent use of AC, a latent building defect is the more probable cause. Landlords are obligated to provide a habitable property, and chronic mold issues breach this requirement.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection to definitively identify the moisture source. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint leaks and condensation points invisible to the naked eye. This technical report is crucial evidence for determining legal responsibility. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores and exacerbate the problem.

For a definitive assessment and compliant remediation, call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Saniservice is equipped to handle the entire process, from forensic inspection to IAQ testing and full remediation, ensuring your apartment is returned to a safe and healthy condition.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 10:58 pm