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

Landlord responsibility for mold remediation in Dubai depends on the cause. If the black mold is due to a structural issue, like a leaking pipe in the wall, a faulty AC drain line, or water seepage from outside, the landlord is typically responsible for fixing the source and the resulting damage. However, if the cause is tenant-related, such as insufficient ventilation, not using the AC to control humidity, or blocking airflow with furniture (like the wardrobe), the cost may fall to you.

The Dubai climate, with its high humidity and constant AC use, creates perfect conditions for mold behind furniture where air doesn't circulate. The first step is to inform your landlord or building management in writing with photos. They should send a technician to identify the moisture source. Do not attempt to clean significant black mold yourself, as improper disturbance can release a high concentration of spores, potentially worsening your children's coughing.

For health concerns and to verify the mold type, a professional indoor environmental assessment with lab analysis is recommended. This provides an objective report on the species present and the moisture source, which is crucial evidence for determining responsibility. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai, providing your tenancy contract and the inspection report as evidence.