Who is responsible for black mold remediation in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, responsibility for mold remediation typically falls on the landlord if the issue stems from a structural defect, such as a hidden water leak from a pipe, a leaking AC unit, or inadequate waterproofing that allows moisture ingress from outside. The landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, which regulates relationships between landlords and tenants. If the mold growth is a direct result of the building's condition, they are responsible for the repair and associated remediation costs.

However, if the landlord can demonstrate the damage is due to tenant negligence—like consistently failing to use the AC to control humidity, blocking ventilation grilles, or causing specific water damage—the cost may be shifted to the tenant. Given Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use, condensation is a common underlying cause that often points to the building's ventilation or insulation systems, not tenant behavior.

For a spreading patch, a professional inspection is critical to identify the moisture source. This is not just surface cleaning; the hidden water issue must be fixed. Document all communications with your landlord in writing. You can request an assessment to determine the root cause, as this report will be the key evidence in any dispute over responsibility. For health concerns with children, a lab test can identify the mold type, which is advisable when symptoms are present.