Is my landlord required to fix black mold?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, in most cases, your landlord is legally required to fix the black mold. The Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) generally obligates landlords to maintain the property and carry out major repairs, especially those related to the structure and essential services. A persistent mold issue caused by a leaking external wall or inadequate insulation is considered a structural defect, falling under their responsibility.

Since you've mentioned the wall faces outside and the problem worsened with humidity, the root cause is likely external moisture penetration or significant condensation—both structural issues the landlord must address. Simply wiping it with bleach is a temporary fix; the moisture source must be identified and sealed to prevent recurrence.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) about the issue, describing the mold's location and its likely connection to the external wall. Mention the health symptoms your children are experiencing. Request that they send a professional to properly diagnose and remediate the cause, not just the visible mold. For a problem of this nature, a professional inspection is advised to identify the exact moisture source and extent.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Disputes Center (RDC) in Dubai. They have the authority to order the landlord to make the necessary repairs.