Is landlord responsible for black mold in closet ceiling?« Back to Previous Page

Under the Tenancy Law, landlords in Dubai are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing issues with the building envelope, such as leaks in the roof or external walls that lead to moisture intrusion and subsequent mold growth. Since the mold is on the ceiling, the source is likely a hidden leak from the apartment above, a cracked roof slab, or compromised waterproofing.

Your first step is to formally report the issue in writing to your landlord or property management company immediately. Provide clear photos and detail the spread over the last few months. They are typically obligated to investigate and repair the root cause of the water intrusion. However, the responsibility for cleaning the mold itself from your personal belongings and surfaces can depend on your tenancy contract, though the landlord must resolve the leak that caused it.

The persistent humidity in Dubai, especially during summer, exacerbates mold growth from any minor, ongoing leak. Do not attempt to simply paint over it; this will not address the moisture source and the mold will return. For a case of spreading ceiling mold, a professional inspection is advised to identify the exact moisture source and extent. A proper remediation process involves stopping the leak, drying the structure, and then removing the contaminated materials. Until it's resolved, consider moving valuable clothing to protect it from spores and odor.