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

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. Typically, the landlord is responsible for the property's structural integrity and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects or faulty installations, such as a leaking AC condensation line or a crack in the external wall allowing moisture ingress. The tenant, however, is responsible for damages resulting from negligence or failure to maintain the property in a habitable condition, such as not using exhaust fans or failing to report a water leak in a timely manner.

Given your description of the mold behind the wardrobe in Discovery Gardens, the persistent dampness suggests a condensation issue. This is extremely common in Dubai's climate due to high humidity and year-round AC operation, which can create cold spots and condensation on walls if the AC is not properly balanced or if there is insufficient insulation. The legal responsibility hinges on the source of the moisture. If the dampness is due to a structural or AC system fault, it falls on the landlord. If it's purely from condensation due to lifestyle and AC settings, it can become a grey area.

Your first step is to immediately notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos. We strongly recommend against DIY removal, as disturbing the mold can aerosolize spores, exacerbating your family's respiratory symptoms like coughing. A professional inspection is crucial to identify the exact moisture source and extent of contamination. Our certified team at Saniservice uses thermal imaging and moisture meters to diagnose the root cause definitively. This report will be vital evidence for determining liability.

For a definitive assessment and to protect your family's health, please contact us for a comprehensive inspection. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can provide the necessary documentation to facilitate discussions with your landlord and execute a safe, complete remediation.