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

The wall behind my wardrobe in the bedroom has a huge black mold patch that’s been slowly spreading for the last couple of months. I’m in a rented apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle and with this humidity, it just seems to get worse. I’ve wiped it down with vinegar but it keeps coming back. Am I responsible for paying for the professional removal, or is this something I need to get my landlord to handle?
Posted by Thomas Torres
Asked on March 21, 2026 7:19 pm
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rented property is typically determined by the cause of the moisture. According to standard rental contract terms and Dubai Land Department guidelines, structural issues that lead to water intrusion, such as leaks from external walls, faulty plumbing within the walls, or inadequate insulation causing condensation, are the landlord's responsibility to rectify. The persistent mold behind your wardrobe in JVC is a serious concern, as this location is a classic hotspot for condensation due to the lack of air circulation from the year-round AC and Dubai's high ambient humidity. The wall likely remains cold, and when humid air penetrates behind the furniture, it condenses, creating the perfect environment for Stachybotrys (black mold) to thrive.

Your attempt at cleaning with vinegar is a common DIY approach but is insufficient for a systemic issue. Vinegar only addresses surface mold and does not kill the roots (hyphae) penetrating the porous wall material, nor does it address the underlying moisture source. The recurrence confirms the problem is not superficial.

I strongly recommend you immediately inform your landlord in writing, with photographs, and request a professional inspection. This is both for your health and to establish a paper trail. A certified inspector will use tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging to identify the exact moisture source and extent of contamination. If the cause is determined to be structural, the landlord is obligated to cover the cost of both the repairs and the professional mold remediation.

For a definitive assessment and compliant remediation that includes containment, air scrubbing, and antimicrobial treatment, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not delay, as this poses a significant health risk and can damage your personal property.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 24, 2026 3:17 am