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

In the UAE, the responsibility for addressing black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum or other species) in a rental property is typically governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. Generally, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues that lead to mold growth, such as concealed water leaks from plumbing, faulty AC drainage systems, or inadequate insulation within the walls that causes condensation—a common issue in Dubai's humid climate exacerbated by year-round AC operation.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining cleanliness and ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent humidity buildup. Since you mention the mold correlates with a recent humidity spike and is on an interior wall, the root cause is critical. A DIY approach is strongly discouraged. Disturbing black mold without proper containment can aerosolize highly toxic mycotoxins, creating a significant health hazard. Furthermore, superficial cleaning will not address the moisture source, guaranteeing regrowth.

For a definitive assessment and to establish liability, a professional inspection is mandatory. Our certified mold inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging, moisture meters, and air sampling to identify the exact moisture source and species of mold. This evidence-based report is crucial for discussing remediation responsibility with your landlord. If the cause is structural, the landlord is typically liable for the cost of the professional remediation required to resolve it safely and permanently.

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