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

The responsibility for black mold remediation in Dubai is primarily determined by the cause of the moisture, as outlined in the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and its amendments. As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition, which includes routine cleaning to prevent mold caused by daily activities. However, the landlord is legally obligated to provide a property that is structurally sound and habitable at the commencement of the tenancy.

The key factor is the source of the dampness. Given your description of a damp wall behind a wardrobe in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), this is a strong indicator of a building envelope issue, such as a hidden water leak from plumbing or, more commonly in Dubai, a breach in the external building sealant. The constant use of AC, while necessary, will not cause damp walls; it actually removes humidity. The issue is likely pre-existing condensation due to thermal bridging or a leak.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing about the suspected structural defect and the health impact on your children. They are typically responsible for investigating and repairing the root cause (e.g., fixing leaks, addressing insulation flaws). The tenant is often responsible for the resulting surface mold cleaning if the issue is minor, but a significant infestation caused by a structural defect, especially one impacting health, falls to the landlord.

Given the confirmed presence of toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) and associated health symptoms, we strongly advise against DIY removal. Disturbing it releases harmful mycotoxins. A professional inspection is critical to identify the exact moisture source and extent of contamination. Our certified teams at Saniservice use thermal imaging and moisture meters for precise diagnosis, which is essential for determining legal responsibility and executing a safe, effective remediation protocol.

For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.