Is black mold treatment a landlord's responsibility in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, in most cases, treating black mold is the landlord's responsibility under Dubai law. The rental contract typically obligates the landlord to maintain the property's structure and ensure it is habitable, which includes addressing issues like dampness and mold that arise from structural defects, leaking pipes, or faulty AC drainage.

Your situation—dampness behind a wardrobe—strongly suggests a hidden leak or condensation issue originating from the building envelope or plumbing, which is a structural maintenance problem. The first step is to formally notify your landlord or building management in writing, with photos, and request immediate repairs to fix the source of the moisture. Without stopping the water intrusion, any mold treatment will be temporary.

For a patch that size with associated health symptoms, a professional inspection is recommended to identify the exact mold species and moisture source. In Dubai's humid climate, condensation from AC units is a common culprit, especially if insulation is poor. The remediation process itself involves containing the area, safely removing the contaminated materials, and treating the underlying cause.

While the landlord covers the structural repair and remediation cost, the responsibility for contents (e.g., cleaning the wardrobe) can depend on your tenancy contract. If the landlord refuses to act, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. Given your children's symptoms, emphasize the health implications in your communication, as this often accelerates a resolution.