Who is responsible for black mold remediation, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for black mold remediation is primarily dictated by the tenancy contract and the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007). The fundamental principle is that the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing the root cause of the mold, which is almost always a moisture intrusion issue. Your description of a damp wall behind a wardrobe in a Marina apartment is a classic indicator of a hidden leak or, more commonly in Dubai, severe condensation due to thermal bridging.

The landlord is legally obligated to rectify the source of the moisture, such as fixing leaking pipes, repairing faulty external waterproofing, or addressing inadequate insulation that leads to condensation from year-round AC operation. The remediation of the mold itself, which is a direct result of that structural moisture issue, also falls under their responsibility.

However, the tenant is responsible for damages and issues caused by their own negligence. This includes failure to properly ventilate the property. In a high-humidity climate like Dubai's, tenant responsibilities include using exhaust fans, periodically opening windows when outdoor humidity is lower, and not blocking AC vents with furniture, which can create cold spots and condensation.

Given the health symptoms you've described and the confirmed presence of visible mold, this is a serious case that requires immediate professional intervention. A certified mold inspection is crucial to identify the exact moisture source, assess the extent of contamination, and provide a legally defensible report for your landlord.

For a comprehensive inspection and expert remediation that addresses both the mold and its source, I strongly recommend you contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a assessment. Presenting your landlord with a professional report will clearly delineate responsibility and ensure the problem is resolved correctly and safely for your family.