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

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a huge patch of black mold spreading from behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. It must have been growing for ages, hidden by the furniture. My landlord is saying it’s our fault for not ventilating properly, but I run the AC constantly. Who is legally responsible for the cleanup and repair costs for something like this in a rental?
Posted by Jennifer Hill
Asked on April 7, 2026 3:42 pm
Based on the UAE Civil Code (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) and the specific rental laws governing Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation hinges on the cause of the moisture.

The landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for the structural integrity of the building. This includes fixing defects like leaking pipes in the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or seepage from adjacent properties that lead to mold growth. If the mold behind your wardrobe is a result of a concealed water leak or a construction defect, the landlord bears full financial responsibility for the investigation, mold remediation, and repairs.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property in a good condition through "ordinary use." In Dubai's humid climate, this explicitly includes managing indoor humidity levels generated by daily activities. Merely running the AC is not sufficient; it must be run correctly. Constant low-temperature settings can cause significant condensation within the units and on cold surfaces if the apartment is not periodically ventilated with dry, outside air. A tenant can be held liable for damages if mold is proven to be a direct result of negligence, such as completely blocking ventilation grilles, failing to report a minor leak, or severe lack of airflow causing chronic condensation.

Given that the mold is extensive and hidden behind furniture, its origin is not immediately clear. This requires a professional inspection to determine the root cause. A certified mold assessor will conduct moisture mapping, thermal imaging, and air quality testing to identify the source of the moisture—whether it’s an internal leak, condensation, or an external intrusion. This technical report is crucial evidence for determining liability as per your tenancy contract.

For an issue of this scale in Jumeirah, we strongly recommend a professional assessment. Our teams are equipped with the tools to provide a definitive report on the cause. Contact us for a comprehensive inspection to resolve the liability question and ensure the mold is remediated safely. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 9, 2026 11:51 pm