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

Under Dubai's rental law, the landlord is typically responsible for repairs to the structure of the property, including issues with walls, leaks, and dampness that lead to mold. This is because the landlord must provide a habitable property. The constant AC use and damp wall you describe point to a potential leak or significant condensation issue within the wall cavity, which is a structural concern.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, including photos of the mold and the damp wall. They are generally obligated to address the source of the moisture—such as fixing a leaking pipe or addressing insulation gaps causing condensation—and the resultant damage. The high humidity and year-round AC operation in Dubai create perfect conditions for this, and the problem will recur until the root cause is fixed.

The cost for remediating the mold itself can be less clear-cut. If the mold growth is a direct result of the landlord's failure to maintain the structure (like an unrepaired leak), they should cover the full cost. However, if the cause was tenant-related (like inadequate ventilation or blocking AC vents), the cost may fall to you. Given the visible growth and health symptoms, this is a serious case that requires professional inspection to identify the exact moisture source and the full extent.

For your family's health, consider a professional mold inspection to assess the air quality and identify the species. This provides documented evidence of the issue's severity, which is useful in discussions with the landlord. Do not attempt to remove significant black mold yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and exacerbate health issues and property damage.