Is my landlord responsible for black mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. This includes addressing structural defects and issues that affect the health and safety of tenants, such as moisture intrusion and resultant mold growth. Since the mold in your Jumeirah apartment originates from an exterior wall, this strongly indicates a structural moisture problem, likely from a leak or inadequate insulation, which falls squarely under the landlord's responsibility for major maintenance.

The humid Dubai climate, combined with year-round AC use, creates significant condensation risks, especially within closets on exterior walls where air circulation is poor. The black mold you describe is a serious health concern. The persistent cough your child is experiencing is a common symptom of mold exposure, which can cause allergic reactions and respiratory irritation.

You must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue immediately. Provide clear photographs and request a professional mold inspection and remediation. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the health risk and property contamination.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly to Dubai Municipality standards, I strongly recommend contacting a certified professional. Our team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive inspection, identify the exact moisture source, and provide a detailed report that can be used to formally request action from your landlord. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate consultation. Your family's health is paramount.