Is black mold removal the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues that affect the habitability and safety of the premises. A black mold infestation, particularly one of the size and nature you describe, typically falls under this category.

The key factor is the root cause. If the mold growth is due to a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, a faulty AC drain line, or water ingress from the building envelope—common issues exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use—the financial and remedial responsibility lies squarely with the landlord. The persistent dampness you note strongly suggests such an underlying issue.

However, if the cause is determined to be tenant-related, such as a lack of ventilation, excessive moisture generation inside the closet, or failure to report a minor leak in a timely manner, you may be held liable for the remediation costs.

Given that the mold is significant, hidden behind items, and accompanied by a persistent damp feeling, a professional inspection is absolutely critical. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to accurately pinpoint the source of the moisture without destructive investigation. This objective assessment is essential for determining liability and outlining the correct remediation protocol, which for black mold requires containment, professional-grade antimicrobials, and HEPA filtration to safely remove spores.

We strongly advise you to formally notify your landlord or property management company of the issue immediately and recommend a professional assessment. For a definitive diagnosis and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly and safely, you can call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.