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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily governed by the rental contract and the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007). Typically, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes or faulty external waterproofing that lead to moisture intrusion. The tenant is generally responsible for damages caused by their own negligence, such as failing to use the AC appropriately, leading to excessive humidity and condensation—a common issue in Dubai's climate.

Your first step is to immediately notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and including photographic evidence. This formally documents the problem and starts the clock on their obligation to respond. Given that the mold is spreading from a structural corner and began after the dew season, it strongly suggests an underlying moisture issue like a seepage or insulation failure, which falls under the landlord's purview. However, do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate spore dispersal and health risks.

Given the health symptoms your children are exhibiting, this is a serious case that requires professional assessment. DIY tests are unreliable. A certified mold inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, which is critical for effective remediation and for determining the exact moisture source. The remediation process itself must involve containment, professional-grade antimicrobial agents, and HEPA filtration to ensure the problem is resolved safely and completely.

For a comprehensive inspection and a legally valid report to present to your landlord, I strongly recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a survey. Our certified team will identify the root cause and provide a detailed scope of work, which you can then share with the property owner to facilitate a swift resolution.