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

Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, your landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. This includes addressing structural issues and defects that affect your health and safety, such as a significant mold infestation.

The presence of black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum or other toxigenic species) in your JVC apartment, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and condensation from year-round AC operation, is a serious habitability concern. The landlord is typically responsible for the underlying cause—which is likely a hidden water leak from plumbing, a crack in the building envelope, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation. You, as the tenant, are responsible for maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent ambient humidity from causing issues, but a large, persistent patch suggests a structural defect beyond tenant-controlled ventilation.

For a case like this, a professional inspection is critical. We must identify the moisture source to enact a permanent solution, not just wipe away the visible growth. Improper handling can aerosolize spores, worsening allergies and contaminating other areas.

I recommend you formally notify your landlord in writing immediately, detailing the issue and requesting remediation. For an expert assessment and a certified remediation plan, contact our team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We provide detailed reports that can be used to formally demonstrate the issue and its cause to your property manager, ensuring the remediation is done correctly and safely.