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

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the cause of the moisture intrusion, as outlined in standard tenancy contracts and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended).

As a tenant, your primary responsibility is to maintain the property through adequate ventilation and regular cleaning to prevent condensation, a common issue in our humid climate exacerbated by year-round AC use. If the mold growth is a result of this lifestyle-related condensation, the cost of cleaning may fall to you. However, the black patch in your closet corner is a significant indicator of a potential underlying issue. This location often suggests a more serious problem, such as a hidden plumbing leak, a breach in the building envelope, or faulty AC drainage from the unit above—all of which are structural and the legal responsibility of the landlord to investigate and rectify.

Given the visible extent and the onset of health symptoms like sneezing, this is a serious case requiring professional intervention. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the problem. Your first step is to formally notify both the building management and the property owner/landlord in writing, detailing the issue and including photographs. This creates an official record. The landlord should then arrange for a professional inspection to identify the root moisture source.

I strongly recommend a certified mold inspection from a company like Saniservice. Our experts use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact cause, which is critical for determining liability and ensuring the remediation is performed correctly to prevent recurrence. For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.