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

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for fixing the source of the moisture and the resulting structural damage, including mold remediation. This is because they are obligated to provide a habitable property and maintain the structural integrity of the building. A leak from the building's exterior, especially after heavy rain, is a structural issue and falls squarely on the landlord.

Your landlord's claim about ventilation is a common deflection, but it's unlikely to be the primary cause for a "huge patch" that appeared after a weather event. While daily condensation from AC use can cause minor surface mold, a significant leak is the root cause here. The constant musty smell confirms an active moisture source.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) with clear photos of the mold and a description of the smell. Politely but firmly state that you believe it is due to a leak from recent rains and request immediate action. For a case this severe, recommend a professional inspection to identify the exact moisture source. A proper inspection report from a certified provider will document the cause, which strengthens your legal position if the landlord continues to refuse. The remediation process itself must address the leak first, then safely remove the contaminated materials.