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

As a certified mold remediation specialist operating in Dubai, this is a common and serious concern we encounter, especially in communities like Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) where high humidity levels are prevalent. The responsibility for mold removal in a rental property is typically dictated by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended (the 'Dubai Rental Law').

Generally, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues like persistent water leaks, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate external sealing that lead to dampness and mold growth. The sudden worsening you describe, coinciding with humid weather, strongly suggests an underlying moisture intrusion issue, which is the landlord's obligation to rectify.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining proper ventilation to mitigate the high ambient humidity, which is a defining feature of Dubai's climate. This means regularly running the AC (which dehumidifies), using exhaust fans, and avoiding activities that generate excess moisture without adequate ventilation.

Given that your children are exhibiting respiratory symptoms, this is a serious health concern that requires immediate professional attention. "Black mold" is a non-scientific term, but it often refers to Stachybotrys chartarum, which can produce mycotoxins. DIY removal is not advised as it can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the problem.

The correct course of action is to first formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue and request a professional mold inspection. This inspection is crucial to identify the exact species and the root cause of the moisture. If the landlord is unresponsive, you may reference your rights under the rental law.

For a comprehensive assessment and certified remediation to ensure your family's safety, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our process includes advanced air and surface sampling to identify the contamination level and a detailed protocol for safe, effective removal, which we can provide to your landlord.