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

Our master bedroom in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has felt really damp for the last couple of months, and we've just discovered a huge patch of black mold behind our wardrobe. The landlord is saying it's our fault for not ventilating properly, but we run the AC constantly. Who is legally responsible for the inspection and remediation costs in Dubai, us or the landlord?
Posted by Malgorzata Bernard
Asked on April 4, 2026 4:27 pm
In Dubai, the legal responsibility for black mold remediation is primarily governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. Typically, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or cracks in the external walls that allow moisture ingress. As a tenant, you are generally responsible for issues resulting from your own negligence or misuse of the premises.

The climate in Dubai, characterized by extreme humidity and the necessity of year-round AC use, creates a high risk for condensation. While you state you run the AC constantly, it is critical that the system is properly maintained and sized for the space. An inefficient or poorly maintained AC unit can actually contribute to humidity problems instead of resolving them. A key indicator of a landlord's responsibility would be if the mold is a direct result of a hidden leak or a pre-existing structural moisture issue, such as the one discovered behind your wardrobe.

Given the discovery of a significant patch of mold, we strongly recommend a professional inspection to determine the exact moisture source. Our certified inspectors use tools like thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to identify the root cause, which is essential for establishing liability. This detailed technical report can be used to formally communicate with your landlord or the Dubai Rental Dispute Center.

For a definitive assessment and to resolve this issue, we advise you to contact our team. We can provide the necessary documentation to clarify responsibility and perform the required remediation. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate consultation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 8:12 pm