Is landlord responsible for mold due to high humidity?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description of expanding black splotches behind a wardrobe in Jumeirah Village Circle, this is a classic case of mold growth exacerbated by the UAE's high humidity and condensation issues. The location behind furniture is a common hotspot due to restricted airflow, which traps moisture and creates a perfect microenvironment for mold, often of the Stachybotrys (black mold) or Aspergillus varieties, both known to cause severe allergic reactions and respiratory issues.

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for maintenance is typically split. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structure and address issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking central AC ducts within the walls, or inadequate external insulation that leads to condensation. However, if the humidity is solely due to ambient climate conditions and tenant lifestyle (e.g., lack of ventilation, not using AC), the tenant may be responsible for the resulting cosmetic damage and cleaning.

Given the health symptoms you describe, this is a serious matter. We strongly recommend a professional inspection to identify the exact mold species through air and surface sampling and to determine the moisture source. This certified report is crucial for legally establishing liability with your landlord.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize toxins and worsen the contamination. For a definitive assessment and remediation plan that complies with Dubai Municipality standards, please contact our specialists. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate consultation.