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

In Dubai, responsibility for mold remediation depends on the source of the problem. Since you've identified a hidden leak as the likely cause, this is typically the landlord's responsibility to fix. The leak is a structural issue with the property itself. The landlord is generally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes addressing moisture intrusion that leads to mold growth.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Include clear photos of the mold and describe your children's symptoms. For a leak and mold of this scale, a professional inspection is strongly advised to fully assess the extent of the damage behind the wall and confirm the moisture source. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and constant AC use can exacerbate hidden moisture problems, improper handling can allow it to quickly return.

The cost of the actual repair for the leak and any structural damage should fall to the landlord. The cost and responsibility for removing your affected personal belongings (like the wardrobe) and cleaning the air may be less clear and could depend on your rental contract's clauses. For a hidden issue you couldn't have reasonably discovered sooner, your case for the landlord covering the full remediation is stronger. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize spores and worsen air quality. A proper remediation involves isolating the area, using professional HEPA filtration, and removing the contaminated materials.