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

This is an excellent and very common question we encounter in Dubai, especially in areas like Jumeirah Village Circle where humidity is a persistent challenge. Determining responsibility for black mold in a rental apartment is governed by the UAE Civil Code, specifically Law No. (5) of 1985.

The general principle is that the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property's "main parts." This includes the building envelope—walls, ceilings, and the HVAC system's main ducts and units. If the mold growth is a result of a structural issue, such as a hidden water leak from a pipe in the slab, a leaking AC condensation drain line within the wall, or inadequate external waterproofing allowing moisture ingress, then the remediation is unequivocally the landlord's financial and legal responsibility.

However, tenant responsibilities are outlined in Article 20 of the Rental Law. You are obligated to use the property in a manner that preserves its condition. If the mold is determined to be solely a result of tenant behavior—such as inadequate ventilation, failing to run the AC which is designed to dehumidify, or creating excessive moisture (e.g., from drying clothes indoors)—you could be held liable for the cleanup costs.

Given that the mold is behind a wardrobe, this strongly suggests a lack of air circulation against a potentially cooler external wall, a classic recipe for condensation in our climate. You should immediately notify your landlord or property management company in writing. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself with bleach, as this can aggravate spores and only removes surface discoloration, not the root hyphae.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection to identify the precise moisture source. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to differentiate between a construction defect and condensation, which is crucial for determining liability. This documented report is often essential for discussions with your landlord.

For a definitive assessment and to protect your health, call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.