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

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold that's been spreading on the wall behind our bedroom wardrobe. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it when we moved the furniture to clean. This is our first rental in Jumeirah Village Circle and our contract doesn't say anything specific. Is the landlord responsible for fixing this and the potential health issues, or is it on me?
Posted by Raj Kapoor
Asked on April 5, 2026 12:50 pm
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically governed by the terms of your tenancy contract and the Dubai Rental Law. Generally, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property's major systems. This includes issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty external waterproofing, leaking central AC systems, or structural cracks allowing moisture ingress, which are the primary causes of mold growth in Dubai's humid climate.

However, tenant responsibilities often include maintaining adequate ventilation to combat the high humidity and condensation caused by year-round air conditioning use. If the mold behind your wardrobe is a result of failing to ventilate the room properly or placing furniture directly against an external wall (a common issue here), the liability could shift to you. The fact that the mold was hidden and you've just discovered it after two years is a significant point in your favor.

Given the situation, especially with health symptoms present, a professional inspection is critical. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice can conduct a thorough assessment to determine the exact moisture source and extent of contamination. This expert report is essential evidence to present to your landlord, as it distinguishes a maintenance issue from an environmental health hazard. We use tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the cause definitively.

For immediate advice and to schedule a professional inspection to protect your family's health and clarify responsibility, I recommend you call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate spore dispersal and health risks.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 11:16 pm