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

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for 2 years and just noticed what looks like a large patch of black mold behind our wardrobe, which is on an exterior wall. It’s been getting worse since the humidity spiked a couple of months ago, and our toddler has been having a runny nose non-stop. Who is responsible for dealing with this and paying for the remediation, us as tenants or the landlord?
Posted by Lisa Allen
Asked on March 28, 2026 1:21 pm
Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the responsibility for addressing black mold in a rental apartment is typically determined by the source of the moisture.

The landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for rectifying any structural or maintenance-related defects that cause the issue. This includes problems with the building's external waterproofing, cracks in the exterior wall allowing moisture ingress, or inherent defects in the AC system leading to excessive condensation. The recurring humidity in Dubai, especially during summer months, often exacerbates these underlying structural issues.

The tenant's responsibility lies in maintaining the property through adequate ventilation and reasonable use. This includes properly operating the AC to manage indoor humidity levels, ensuring rooms are ventilated when possible, and promptly reporting any signs of dampness or leaks to the landlord to prevent further damage.

In your case at Jumeirah Village Circle, the mold's location on an exterior wall strongly suggests a potential structural moisture intrusion. The persistent health symptom in your toddler further underscores the urgency. The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photographs, and request an immediate inspection.

For a definitive assessment of the cause and extent, a professional mold inspection is critical. Our certified technicians at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to identify the exact moisture source and provide a detailed report. This objective evidence is invaluable for determining liability between tenant and landlord and for planning an effective remediation strategy.

We strongly recommend you seek a professional evaluation. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 7:41 am