Is landlord or tenant responsible for mold in Jumeirah?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the conditions you've described in your Jumeirah Lakes Towers apartment, this is a classic case of mold growth driven by Dubai's high humidity and an AC-related moisture issue. The black, fuzzy growth indicates an active colony, likely Stachybotrys chartarum or Aspergillus niger, both of which require immediate attention due to potential health risks and property damage.

In the UAE, the responsibility for remediation is typically dictated by the cause of the moisture. According to standard tenancy contract interpretations under Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), the landlord is responsible for the maintenance of the property's structure and permanent fixtures, including the central AC system and building envelope. Since the leak originates from the AC unit—a landlord-provided fixture—the responsibility to rectify the leak and the resulting structural mold damage almost certainly falls to the landlord.

However, as the tenant, you are responsible for reporting the issue promptly and maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent condensation, a common issue when AC units are set too low against Dubai's external heat, causing thermal bridging and condensation on walls.

Your first actionable step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the AC leak and the mold growth, as this establishes a record. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize spores and spread contamination throughout your apartment.

For a definitive assessment of the infestation's extent, both within the wall cavity and the AC ductwork, a professional inspection is mandatory. Our certified team at Saniservice uses thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to identify the exact moisture source and the full scope of the mold growth, providing a report that can be used to clarify liability with your landlord.

For immediate advice and to schedule a comprehensive inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.