Is landlord responsible for black mold in Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Based on my experience as a certified mold inspector in the UAE, the presence of black speckles spreading on an interior wall is a significant red flag and your landlord's dismissal of it as "just condensation" is a major cause for concern. While condensation can be a catalyst, it creates the perfect environment for toxic mold growth, including Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold), which is a serious health hazard.

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for major maintenance and structural issues falls squarely on the landlord. This includes addressing the root cause of moisture intrusion and the subsequent remediation of any biological growth, like mold, that results from it. The landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property, and a spreading mold infestation directly violates that. Your responsibility as a tenant is typically limited to reporting the issue in writing as soon as it is discovered.

Given the description of spreading black speckles, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. DIY tests are unreliable. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, which is critical for determining the remediation protocol and proving the severity to your landlord.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize toxic spores. I strongly advise you to formally notify your landlord in writing, with photos, and insist on a professional assessment. If they remain uncooperative, you may need to escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC).

For immediate professional testing and a definitive report you can present to your landlord, call our team at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. We can provide the legally defensible documentation you need.