Is landlord responsible for child's bedroom mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks and I just discovered a bunch of black, fuzzy spots spreading from the corner of their bedroom ceiling. We’re in an older building in Deira and I think it might be from the AC unit leaking inside the wall last summer. Is getting this treated the landlord's responsibility, or is it on me to handle and pay for the cleanup?
Posted by Lauren Wright
Asked on April 10, 2026 5:50 pm
In Dubai, 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, structural issues and problems related to the building's integrity, such as a leaking AC condensate drain line inside the wall that leads to mold growth, are the legal responsibility of the landlord to rectify. As the tenant, your responsibility is typically to report the issue in a timely manner and maintain proper ventilation within the unit.

The scenario you describe—black, fuzzy growth originating from a ceiling corner with a history of an AC leak—is a serious concern. This is a classic case of hidden condensation and water damage, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use, which creates ideal conditions for mold like Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold). The persistent coughing in your children is a significant health indicator that should not be overlooked.

Your immediate action should be to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and including photographs. Request immediate professional assessment and remediation. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing extensive mold growth can aerosolize spores and exacerbate health issues and contamination.

For a definitive assessment of liability and the required remediation scope, I strongly recommend a professional indoor environmental inspection. Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to identify the exact source and extent of the contamination. This provides an objective, technical report that can be used to clearly establish responsibility with your landlord.

For immediate consultation and to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Your family's health is paramount.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 12, 2026 5:12 am