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

That black, fuzzy growth is almost certainly mold, and in Dubai's humid climate, a leaking AC unit is a prime cause. While not all black-colored mold is the infamous "toxic black mold" (Stachybotrys), its presence indicates a chronic moisture issue that requires proper remediation, not just wiping.

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential systems, which includes the AC unit and the building envelope. Since the leak from the AC is the source of the moisture damaging the wall, the responsibility for repairing the AC, fixing any water damage, and addressing the resulting mold infestation legally falls on your landlord. Simply wiping it is an inadequate fix that will not address the root cause, and the mold will return.

For a confirmed case like this with visible growth, a professional inspection is strongly advised. They can identify the mold species and the full extent of the infestation, which often spreads behind walls. Remediation involves stopping the water leak, properly removing the contaminated materials, and treating the area to prevent recurrence. For your health and to document the issue for your landlord, you can request a company with a microbiology lab to conduct testing, which provides a verified report on the mold type and concentration.

Formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue, citing the leaking AC and mold growth. If they remain uncooperative, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.