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

In Dubai's rental properties, responsibility for black mold remediation is primarily determined by the cause of the moisture, as outlined in the Dubai Rental Law. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structural integrity and ensure it is habitable. Therefore, if the black mold in your Jumeirah Village Circle apartment is a result of a structural issue, such as a leaking roof, faulty external waterproofing, or defective plumbing within the walls, the financial and remedial responsibility falls on the landlord. You must formally notify them in writing to initiate repairs.

However, tenant responsibility comes into play if the moisture source is due to internal occupant behavior. In Dubai's climate, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning, condensation is a major culprit. If the mold is primarily due to a lack of ventilation, failing to use the AC to control humidity, or an internal spill that wasn't properly dried, the cost of remediation may be the tenant's obligation.

Given that the mold is recurring despite cleaning and is associated with health symptoms like coughing, a professional inspection is critical. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice can conduct a thorough assessment to identify the exact species of mold (e.g., Stachybotrys chartarum) and, more importantly, use tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the precise moisture source. This expert report is essential for definitively determining liability between you and your landlord and for ensuring the remediation is performed correctly to prevent recurrence. For an immediate assessment, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.