Landlord responsible for black mold remediation in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. Black mold resulting from a building envelope issue—like a hidden leak in the plumbing, a roof leak, or inadequate insulation causing condensation—falls under their obligation.

The landlord's claim that it's from your AC usage is a common deflection. While AC units can produce condensation, the responsibility for managing that moisture through proper drainage and building design lies with the property owner. The persistent high humidity in Dubai, especially in enclosed spaces like closets on exterior walls, frequently leads to condensation and mold if not properly mitigated by the building's construction.

For a formal resolution, you need documented evidence. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can release spores. A professional indoor environmental assessment includes moisture mapping to find the water source and air/surface sampling to identify the mold type. This report is crucial as it objectively identifies the root cause. Present this findings report to your landlord as it substantiates your claim that the issue is structural, not behavioral.

If the landlord refuses to act, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or the Rental Dispute Center (RDC). They will typically require such a professional report to adjudicate. The cost of remediation to fix the leak and remove the mold would then be the landlord's responsibility, while the inspection cost for the assessment may be negotiable or potentially recoverable if you win your case.