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

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for 2 years and just noticed a huge patch of black mold spreading from the corner of our bedroom closet, probably from a hidden leak. The AC is always on but the room still feels damp. Our landlord is saying it's our fault for not ventilating properly, but we think it's a building issue. Who is legally responsible for the cleanup and repairs in this situation?
Posted by Megan Anderson
Asked on March 19, 2026 11:31 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code and common tenancy law practices in Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation typically falls on the property owner (landlord) if the cause is a structural or maintenance-related issue, such as a hidden water leak, faulty waterproofing, or a defective AC unit. Tenants are responsible for damage resulting from negligence, such as a failure to use the AC appropriately or to report a minor issue that then escalates.

In your case, the mold originating from a closet corner strongly suggests a concealed leak or water ingress from the building envelope, which is a structural defect and squarely the landlord's responsibility. The constant dampness despite the AC running further indicates a potential issue with the AC drainage line or insufficient insulation leading to condensation within the walls—again, a building systems issue. Landlords are legally obligated to provide a habitable property, and addressing the source of moisture is their duty.

Given the climate in Dubai, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on AC, condensation and hidden leaks are common. However, they must be addressed at the source. We strongly recommend you immediately engage a professional mold inspection company like Saniservice. A certified inspector can perform a thorough assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to definitively identify the moisture source and the extent of the contamination. This technical report is crucial evidence to formally present to your landlord, demonstrating that the cause is not tenant negligence but a building defect requiring their immediate attention.

For a definitive diagnosis and to protect your health and tenancy rights, call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate spore dispersal and health risks.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 20, 2026 12:08 pm