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

In Dubai, the responsibility for black mold in an apartment is primarily determined by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai Law'. The core principle is the distinction between maintenance (landlord's responsibility) and upkeep (tenant's responsibility).

The landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property free from structural defects. This includes ensuring the building envelope is watertight and that the air conditioning system, a critical component in managing Dubai's high humidity, is functioning correctly. If the mold is a result of a pre-existing or developing structural issue, such as water infiltration from a leaking pipe within the walls, a faulty AC unit causing excessive condensation, or compromised external waterproofing, the financial responsibility for investigation, mold remediation, and repairs falls on the landlord.

The tenant's responsibility is for the day-to-day upkeep and ventilation of the property. If the mold growth is conclusively proven to be a direct result of tenant negligence—such as a failure to use the AC to control humidity, not reporting a water spill promptly, or obstructing ventilation grilles (e.g., by placing a wardrobe directly against an external wall)—the landlord could argue the tenant is liable for the costs.

Given the situation you described—a large patch behind a wardrobe on an external wall during a period of high humidity—this is a complex case. The location suggests a potential cold bridge or condensation issue, which could be a building-related problem. The first and most critical step is to engage a professional mold inspection company like Saniservice. Our certified inspectors use tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the precise source of the moisture, which is the only way to definitively determine liability. We provide a detailed report that can be used to discuss responsibility with your landlord from an evidence-based standpoint. For a definitive assessment, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.