Landlord or tenant responsible for black mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility typically falls on the landlord to fix the underlying cause—likely a hidden leak or water seepage in the building envelope. Your tenancy contract may reference the Decree No. 26 of 2007, which regulates landlord-tenant relationships, implying the landlord must maintain the property’s structure. You are generally responsible for reporting it promptly and for surface cleaning if the leak is not the cause.

Given Jumeirah's proximity to the coast and the recent humidity, this is a common issue. The mold is a symptom; the landlord must repair the leak and any resulting structural damage. You should document the issue with dated photos and formally notify the property management company or landlord in writing, as this is a habitability concern.

For a patch actively spreading from within the wall, a professional inspection is advised to identify the moisture source. Surface cleaning alone is ineffective if the leak persists. A certified inspector can provide a report detailing the cause, which is crucial evidence for your landlord. In many cases, remediation involves opening the wall to address the source and properly treat the affected area.