Is landlord responsible for black mold cleanup?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, the responsibility for maintenance falls into two categories. The landlord is responsible for the structural integrity and major maintenance of the property. The tenant is responsible for maintenance resulting from misuse or negligence.

In the case of mold growth, the determination of responsibility hinges on the root cause. Given your description that the issue began after a period of high humidity and is located on an external wall behind furniture, the primary cause is likely condensation due to inadequate ventilation. This is a common issue in Dubai's climate, where high external humidity meets the cold surfaces created by year-round air conditioning. This is generally considered a building-related issue, not tenant misuse.

Therefore, the remediation of the mold itself, including the necessary hygienization by a certified professional to ensure it is safely removed and spores are neutralized, is typically the landlord's responsibility. The repainting would also fall to them, but only after the underlying moisture issue is resolved and the mold is professionally remediated. If the mold was caused by a tenant action, such as a failure to use the AC or ventilation fans, leading to excessive internal humidity, the responsibility could shift.

However, due to the health symptoms your children are exhibiting, this is a serious case that requires immediate professional assessment. Black mold (likely Stachybotrys chartarum) can produce mycotoxins. I strongly recommend you contact your landlord immediately and insist on a professional mold inspection. Our team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to definitively identify the source and scope of the contamination and provide a certified report. This report is crucial for formally establishing liability with your landlord.

For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize the spores and exacerbate the health risks and property contamination.