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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the cause of the moisture. Under standard rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are obligated to provide a habitable property and are responsible for addressing structural defects that lead to issues like water infiltration or faulty AC systems. If the black mold in your Al Nahda bedroom is a result of a leaking pipe in the wall, a crack in the building envelope, or a malfunctioning central AC unit causing excessive condensation, then the financial and remedial responsibility falls on your landlord. You must formally notify them in writing to initiate the process.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent humidity buildup, a common issue in Dubai's climate where year-round AC use can lead to significant condensation if not managed properly. If the mold is solely due to lifestyle factors like drying clothes indoors or blocking AC vents with furniture, you may be liable for the cost of remediation.

Given the visible growth and your children's respiratory symptoms, this is a serious health hazard that requires immediate professional assessment. DIY removal is strongly discouraged for black mold, especially of this scale, as improper handling can aerosolize toxins and exacerbate the contamination. A certified inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and, crucially, use moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint the exact source of the water intrusion. This evidence is key to determining liability.

For a definitive diagnosis and a legally sound report to present to your landlord, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.