Who is liable for black mold remediation in Dubai rentals?« Back to Previous Page

Liability for mold remediation in Dubai rentals depends on the cause, not the presence of mold itself. If the mold is a result of a structural issue, like a leaky roof, faulty external waterproofing, or a broken pipe within the walls, the landlord is responsible for the repairs and the resulting remediation. However, if the mold is caused by tenant behavior, such as insufficient use of air conditioning leading to excessive condensation, the tenant may be held liable.

Your situation—mold spreading on a ceiling after a humid spell—strongly suggests an underlying moisture issue from the building envelope or a leak from an adjacent apartment, which is typically the landlord's responsibility. The landlord’s claim that an AC set "too cold" causes mold is incorrect; it's the lack of AC use that allows humidity to accumulate. Year-round AC is a necessity in Dubai to control the indoor humidity that mold requires to grow.

For a definitive determination, you need a professional inspection to identify the moisture source. This is crucial for your dispute. Document the mold's growth with photos and dates. Formally request in writing (email is best) that the landlord address the structural cause. If they refuse, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC) in Dubai. The inspector's report on the moisture source will be the primary evidence for determining liability. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and exacerbate health issues like the coughing you've observed.