Who is responsible for black mould in my rental ceiling?« Back to Previous Page

Responsibility for black mould in a rental ceiling in Dubai depends on the source of the moisture. The persistent damp smell and its worsening after heavy rains strongly suggest an external water intrusion, likely a leak from the building envelope or a faulty window seal.

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity of the property. This includes repairs to the external walls, roof, and window seals that are intended to prevent water ingress. Since the mould is spreading from the corner above the window, the root cause is almost certainly a structural issue you are not liable for.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or building management in writing, with clear photos, detailing the issue and its progression. They are obligated to address the source of the leak. For the mould itself, a professional inspection is crucial. The inspection will confirm the mould type and, more importantly, use moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint the exact entry point of the water, which is the evidence you need to ensure the landlord fixes the cause, not just the symptom. In many cases, simply cleaning the visible mould without repairing the leak is a temporary solution, as the problem will return with the next rain. A proper inspection report from a certified provider provides the documentation required to hold the responsible party accountable.