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

In the UAE, the responsibility for black mold remediation in a rental property is primarily determined by the cause, as outlined in Law No. 26 of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, commonly known as the 'RERA Law'.

The landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property that is structurally sound and maintains all basic services. This includes ensuring the building envelope is watertight and the air conditioning system, a critical component in our humid climate, is functioning correctly. If the black mold on your ceiling is a result of a structural defect, such as water infiltration from a leaking roof or a faulty external seal, or a malfunctioning central AC unit that is causing excessive condensation, the responsibility for inspection and remediation falls squarely on the landlord.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property in a habitable condition through day-to-day care. This includes ensuring adequate ventilation to manage the high ambient humidity, which is a primary catalyst for mold growth. While you state you run the AC constantly, it is crucial that the unit is set to a sufficiently low temperature to effectively dehumidify the air and that you periodically ventilate the apartment by opening windows when outdoor humidity is lower.

Given that the mold is spreading from a ceiling corner—a classic point for condensation or seepage—a professional inspection is essential to determine the root cause. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging and moisture meters to differentiate between condensation issues and building envelope failures. This evidence-based report is vital for formally establishing liability with your landlord.

For a definitive diagnosis and a compliant remediation plan, I strongly recommend you contact our team. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.