Who is responsible for black mold from a hidden leak?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility typically falls on the property owner (landlord) to rectify the source of the moisture and the resulting damage, as it is a structural issue affecting the habitability of the home. In Dubai, the standard tenancy contract and Law No. 26 of 2007 generally place the obligation for major maintenance and repairs of the property's core structure—including plumbing within walls and leaks from common areas—on the landlord.

Your immediate step should be to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the mold and the suspected leak source. Do not attempt to remove the mold yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and worsen the indoor air quality, potentially exacerbating your children's coughing. A professional inspection is crucial to identify the exact moisture source, which is often hidden condensation from an AC line, a leaking pipe in the wall, or seepage from an adjacent unit.

The Dubai climate, with its high humidity and constant AC use, creates perfect conditions for such hidden mold growth if any moisture is present. While you are likely responsible for general upkeep and reporting issues promptly, a leak you couldn't have reasonably discovered is not typically considered tenant negligence.

For your health concerns, consider a professional indoor environmental assessment to document the mold species and spore levels, which can provide evidence of the property's condition. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai, as unresolved dampness and mold are valid grounds for a complaint.