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

Based on Dubai's rental laws, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the responsibility for maintenance falls into two categories. Structural and major maintenance issues are the legal obligation of the landlord. This includes problems with the building's core infrastructure that lead to water intrusion, such as leaking central AC ducts within the walls, faulty plumbing, or cracks in the building envelope that allow moisture seepage—common issues in older Jumeirah buildings.

The tenant is typically responsible for minor maintenance arising from daily use, like changing AC filters and ensuring adequate ventilation. However, your situation points to a structural cause. The fact that the wall itself is damp, the AC is consistently on (which should dehumidify), and the mold is in a closed closet strongly suggests a hidden leak or inadequate insulation in the external wall, which is the landlord's responsibility to investigate and rectify.

You must formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) about the issue immediately. They are legally required to address the underlying cause. For the testing and remediation itself, this is a serious health and property concern. I strongly recommend a professional inspection to identify the exact moisture source and type of mold. DIY cleaning often fails to address the root cause, leading to rapid regrowth. Our certified team can perform a comprehensive assessment and provide a detailed report for your landlord.

For immediate assistance with testing and a legally defensible report, call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.