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

Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the legal responsibility for maintenance and repairs falls upon the landlord. This obligation includes addressing structural issues and faults that affect the habitability of the property, such as water leaks or seepage that lead to mold growth. Since you discovered the mold behind a wardrobe in Silicon Oasis, its origin is likely a hidden leak in the plumbing or building envelope, or condensation due to inadequate insulation—all of which are the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property's cleanliness and reporting any issues promptly. As you have lived there for two years and just noticed the worsening problem, your immediate duty is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the mold and the suspected underlying cause. Delaying this notification could potentially complicate liability.

Given that your children are experiencing respiratory symptoms like coughing, this is a serious health concern that requires immediate professional attention. The humid Dubai climate, combined with year-round AC use which can create significant condensation behind furniture, accelerates mold proliferation.

We strongly recommend you do not attempt to remove this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and worsen the contamination. A certified mold inspection is essential to identify the exact species (e.g., toxic black mold Stachybotrys) and the moisture source. The resulting report will be crucial evidence for your landlord.

For a comprehensive assessment and remediation quote, please contact our specialists. We can provide the necessary documentation to support your case with the landlord. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.