Who is responsible for black mold cleanup in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, landlord-tenant responsibilities for mold remediation are primarily governed by the rental contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended (the 'Dubai Rental Law'). The general principle is that the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property's core components, including the building envelope, plumbing, and AC systems, which are common sources of moisture intrusion. The tenant is typically responsible for damages resulting from their own negligence or failure to maintain adequate ventilation.

Given your situation in a humid climate like Bur Dubai, where year-round AC use can lead to significant condensation if systems are not properly maintained, the root cause is critical. The mold behind the wardrobe suggests a hidden, persistent moisture issue, likely due to a leaking pipe in the wall, capillary rising damp from the foundation, or a breach in the building's waterproofing. These are structural defects and fall squarely under the landlord's obligation to provide a habitable property.

However, you must formally notify the landlord in writing of the issue immediately, as delaying notification could be construed as tenant negligence, allowing the problem to worsen. For a health-sensitive situation like this, with children presenting respiratory symptoms, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. DIY attempts can disturb the mold, causing a significant release of spores and cross-contamination.

Our certified inspectors at Saniservice can perform a comprehensive assessment to identify the exact moisture source, assess the extent of contamination, and provide a detailed report. This report is crucial evidence to formally establish landlord responsibility and scope the necessary remediation, which involves professional containment, removal of contaminated materials, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment. For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.