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

In the UAE, the responsibility for black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) remediation in a rental property is primarily dictated by the terms of your tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai Law'.

Typically, the structural integrity of the property, including the waterproofing of windows, walls, and roofs, is the legal responsibility of the landlord. The mold growth around your window frames in Deira is a common issue directly linked to condensation and inadequate sealing, which allows moisture intrusion from our high external humidity. This is a maintenance defect the landlord is obligated to rectify.

As the tenant, your responsibility is to maintain the interior of the property, including regular cleaning and, crucially, reporting any defects like this promptly to the landlord in writing. You must also demonstrate that the mold is not a result of tenant negligence, such as failing to use the AC for humidity control or improper ventilation leading to excessive internal moisture.

Given that your children are experiencing respiratory symptoms, this is a serious health concern that necessitates immediate professional intervention. DIY cleaning is not advised for black mold, as improper handling can aerosolize toxins and worsen contamination. A certified mold inspection is critical to assess the extent of the infestation, identify the precise moisture source, and produce a legally valid report.

I strongly recommend you formally notify your landlord of the issue and request action. For a comprehensive inspection and a remediation plan that complies with Dubai Municipality standards, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment and obtain a definitive report on liability and the required corrective actions.